Dreamfest:Friday-Sunday, May 16th-18th

Although the line-up for this year’s Dreamfest Weekend hasn’t been released yet, the event has more than earned our trust at this point. This marks the 14th (!!) iteration of the 3-day weekend fest, which is all about promoting Memphis music and artist collaboration. Arguably the best annual showcase of the Bluff City’s R&B and hip-hop artists, Dreamfest weekend always brings the vibes and just gets better every year. Stay tuned for more information at https://www.dreamfestweekend.com/.

New Breed Brass Band ft. Trombone Shorty: Saturday, May 31st

As a former resident of the Big Easy, it’s hard for me to overstate my deep love of New Orleans brass bands and second line culture, which very well may be the most fun music ever created. New Breed Brass Band, a group of young and fiercely talented New Orleanians steeped in the tradition, will be joined by the great Trombone Shorty. Incorporating elements of Caribbean music, Cash Money-era NOLA rap, and Anderson Paak-esque R&B, New Breed Brass Band is the new wave in Crescent City brass.

Corey Lou & Da Village + Savannah Brister: Saturday, June 7th

You know we had to give some love to the home team, right? This summer’s season features several great homegrown acts that we plan on catching, including performances from Mak Ro and the Stax Music Academy, but we’ve got this unexpected co-headlining pairing of soul-funk band Corey Lou & Da Village and former The Voice contestant Savannah Brister. If you’re looking for an excuse to break out your dancing shoes, look no further.

Eddie 9V:Thursday, June 12th

Eddie 9V’s brand of soulful blues is undeniably retro, yet his sharp observations of modern America place him solidly within the current moment. Although the Georgia-born bandleader has yet to reach the age of thirty, he’s already a seasoned veteran who has earned favorable comparisons to blues greats such as Freddie King.

Alejandro Escovedo-Friday, June 20th

NPR Music recently referred to Alejandro Escovedo’s career as “one of the most fascinating paths in music,” and once you’ve read over his biography, it’s certainly hard to disagree. Beginning as a notable figure in NYC’s ‘70s punk scene, Escovedo went on to play an important role in the development of roots rock (the True Believers) and alt-country (Rank & File) and is now a living legend in his hometown of Austin, TX. Whether or not you’ve heard his name, Escovedo is one of the greatest musical chameleons of his generation.

Eggy-Thursday, June 26th

If you can get past their exceedingly goofy band name, then Connecticut jam band Eggy really does have a lot to offer. Known for their electric live shows, the quartet has mastered the art of creating fun, funky feel-good music perfect for the summer. Think Phish with a few more contemporary influences as you’ll be close to capturing Eggy’s unique sound.

For more information about this summer’s Orion Financial Free Concert Series, visit https://overtonparkshell.org/calendar.

The post 6 Must-See Shows for This Season’s Orion Free Concert Series at the Overton Park Shell appeared first on We Are Memphis.

PreauXX-“Lost Airpods”

I seek therapy but never commit/I got trauma I could never forget/I got people who gon’ love me no matter/But watch the ones who gon’ hate from the fence…

As you can see, lost airpods aren’t the only concern on Preauxx’s infectious new single, but damn if he wouldn’t like to know where they are. Over understated, hazy production from LEE MVRS, PreauXX tells the tale of a hungover morning that continues to spiral out of control (despite him sounding cool and collected throughout). As we’ve become accustomed to, the Unapologetic rapper once again delivers proof that he’s one of the city’s most unorthodox and outstanding talents regardless of genre.

Frank McLallen-“Manic”

To say that we are living in stressful times would be quite the understatement, so Frank McLallen’s new sweet Beatles-esque pop track “Manic” has come like a much-needed salve. McLallen, a veteran of the local music scene who has been a member of bands including Ex-Cult, the Sheiks, the Tennessee Screamers, and Model Zero, confidently takes center stage on the first single from his upcoming solo album Extra Eyes. A perfect laid-back ditty for these beautiful (if stressful) spring days.

Zen Desire ft. Ronin-“Good Coffee”

Still not relaxed enough? Fair enough! May we suggest “Good Coffee,” the new single from local singer-songwriter Zen Desire? Grounded by Desire’s dulcet vocals and acoustic guitar and featuring an unexpected but welcomed guest rap verse from Ronin, the track blends elements of R&B, folk, and hip-hop to create a breezy and vibey track that is as comforting as–you guessed it–a cup of good coffee.

TANGELA-“Miso”

While one of our primary goals with this segment is to highlight songs that are hot off the presses, we can be convinced to revisit a previously-released track, especially when it goes as hard as TANGELA’s February release “Miso.” Produced by Ethan Hunt & Ryan Peel and featuring Elliott Ives on guitar, “Miso” is an exhilarating hodgepodge of trap, hard rock, and pop that just demands to be played LOUD. Our only complaint is that with a run-time of just under two minutes, we’re left wanting even more.

Bleu Levees-“Vieux Carre”

Earlier this month, Bleu Levees dropped his highly-anticipated debut album The Way of the Cat, which we’ve had on repeat ever since. We’ve been fans of the Memphis by the way of New Orleans rapper for years and his signature sound and conscious lyricism are both in top form throughout the project. One of our favorites is “Vieux Carre,” a sultry late-night jam that takes its name from NOLA’s oldest neighborhood (as well as a bourbon cocktail from the Crescent City). Be sure to check out the upcoming listening party for the album this Saturday (April 19th) at the Memphis Listening Lab!

The post WAMM In Rotation: 5 Songs for April ’25 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Brezay

Although Brezay isn’t necessarily a new face on the Memphis music scene–we published a profile of the rising rapper back in 2022–this year is shaping up to be a truly break-out moment for the multi-faceted performer. This month alone, she dropped the ground-shaking anthem “Pinky on My Grillz” and performed during halftime at a Grizzlies halftime show, proving that her time has finally arrived.

Suroor

Since moving to Memphis in 2022, Pakistan-born pop star Suroor has hit the ground running when it comes to taking her music career to the next level. A self-described “industrial hyperpop” artist, Suroor first began winning over fans with her high-energy live performances and has since helped to start a DIY music label called Purgatory Pressings and release her debut album LAVENDER SHOWERS.

Raneem Imam

Arab-American singer-songwriter Raneem Imam has been gaining attention from the local music industry since she was still a student at Rhodes College, earning several prestigious fellowships. Since graduation, she has continued to hone her craft and expand her fanbase with her soft brand of R&B and electropop.

Haley Ivey

Probably best known as a member of the delightfully unhinged duo Little Baby Tendencies, Haley Ivey has been playing her part in keeping the city’s punk scene thriving for years. In today’s fraught political climate, she has also been a fearless voice in speaking out against injustices of every stripe with righteous anger in recent songs such as “Flight of the Fascists” and “Walking While Woman” from the 2025 album Burn Down the State.

Nubia Yasin

At this point, Unapologetic’s track record of discovering some of the city’s brightest and boldest young talent is unimpeachable, and rising pop priestess Nubia Yasin is proof that the label is still at the top of their game when it comes to scouting talent. With a wide-range of eclectic influences and a sound that is both fresh yet steeped in tradition, Nubia Yasin is certainly an artist to keep a close eye on.

Victoria Dowdy

In case you haven’t noticed, Americana music has been having a true renaissance over the past couple of years, and singer-songwriter Victoria Dowdy has been at the forefront of Memphis’ vibrant scene the whole time. As both a solo artists and as a member of the duo Oakwalker, Dowdy’s modern take on classic folk and country has made her a key figure in the local singer-songwriter community, a position she isn’t likely to give up any time soon.

Alice Hasen

If you’ve yet to see violinist/fiddler Alice Hasen perform live yet, believe us when we say that it is truly a sight to behold. The Vermont-born musician has a virtuosic control over her instrument that is absolutely spellbinding, earning her praise from across the country.

Isabella deFir

Despite still not being of legal drinking age, Isabella deFir already has over a decade of musical experience to her name. As both a solo artist and a member of the up-and-coming synth-pop duo Isabealla&Sebastian, deFir’s uniquely beautiful tone and gift for lyrics places her in a league of her own.

Glockianna

Two years ago, we here at WAMM told you that rapper Glockianna was a homegrown talent worthy of your attention, and that sentiment has only grown stronger since. Much like labelmate Duke Deuce, Glock is keeping the classic Memphis crunk sound alive with a seemingly endless stream of elbow-throwing bangers. The most exciting part? She’s still in her teens and only getting better.

Rachel Maxann

Much like Valerie June before her, Rachel Maxann’s gorgeous blend of soul and folk is bolstered by her rare and unparalleled vocal talent, making her a true star within the city’s Americana scene. For anyone who still holds the wrongheaded notion that folk is somehow a so-called “white” genre, Maxann is a living testament to Black artists’ many contributions to the genre.

The post The Future is Female: 10 Women Who Are Defining the Future of Memphis Music appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Let’s start at the very beginning. Tell us a bit about the formation of WIMM and the people behind it.

It had been an idea running through my head for a while since 2020/2021 when I’d see monthly listings at venues and wondering why I didn’t see many women acts on the boards when I was meeting so many female musicians around town. I’d run a successful live-streamed show in NY and thought, we should do that here, for women! I mentioned it to my friend Alice Hasen, who thought it was a good idea and WiMM was born. We enlisted a few others to help out and then in March 2022 we hosted our first showcase at BSIDE. It has grown from there and honestly, there really is no limit because if you can dream it up and execute it, it lives. Currently, it is a one-woman operation but we are always collaborating with other movers and shakers here.

For those who may be unfamiliar with WiMM, give us an overview of your typical work and programming.

WiMM is “Women in Memphis Music.” We are committed to providing a platform that highlights and uplifts female and female-identifying musicians and provides a space to connect and create a community that thrives, collaborates, supports, and promotes one another. That has been our mission statement from day one. We want to offer up-and-coming musicians trying to get their footing here in Memphis a resource and place to start by meeting other women musicians and a platform dedicated to highlighting their talents.

You recently celebrated your third anniversary as an organization (Congratulations!). Reflecting back on the past three years, what are some of your personal highlights?

Thanks! Hosting Carla Thomas’ 81st birthday will always remain a highlight. Hosting an all female-fronted music festival with all genres represented; from Glockianna to Joyce Cobb to Oakwalker to The KLiTZ. Seeing the crossover of women playing in each other’s bands at showcases is always cool. Hearing that musicians met at one of our events and play together now, is the reward! I purposely combine genres with each show to help “cross-pollinate” and introduce artists who may never cross paths otherwise. Having people come up to me after the shows to say what a beautiful night it was and they felt the good vibes of camaraderie and love through the evening always warms my heart. We are all in this together, unity is the only way!

We certainly won’t ask you to pick favorites, but share some of the up-and-coming women artists that you think more people should have on their radar this year.

There is simply no way I could pick any one artist or artists because with every show we host, I am constantly blown away with the talent in this city. The caliber of female artists here is vast and covers all genres! I invite people to check out our YouTube page that contains the last 3 years of archived performances and find your new favorite artist in the city! Or come to a monthly showcase! Nothing beats live music!

What are some of your plans for WiMM, both the in the near future and longer-term?

We plan to keep hosting monthly showcases, happy hours, informational events, vocal workshops, representing at events across the city, connecting women, amplifying women’s presence in the music scene here and we’d love to produce another successful female fronted music festival! I’m sure other things will transpire as well, we want to keep growing and connecting.

What are the best ways to connect with WIMM, both for artists and fans?

You can reach us anytime via email (connectwimm@gmail.com) for more information on how to be a featured artist and through our IG page (@womeninmemphismusic). We’d love to hear from you and if you are an artist, host you! We also hope to see you at a show soon!

The post Three Years In, WiMM Continues to Showcase the City’s Brightest Women Artists appeared first on We Are Memphis.

5 Fridays of Jazz at the Benjamin Hooks Library (Every Friday in March)

The annual 5 Fridays of Jazz series is returning yet again for another stellar season of free local jazz at the central library. This year’s slate includes local luminaries such as Joyce Cobb, Deborah Swiney, and the Jazz Ensemble of Memphis. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, making this the perfect way to kick off your weekend in style.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight at the Orpheum (March 13)

The Rock Orchestra is a collective of classical musicians who breath beautifully dark energy into legendary rock and metal songs from legendary acts such as Metallica, Rage Against the Machine, and AC/DC. Surrounded by an ethereal candlelit setting and elaborate costumes, this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that will make you hear some of your old favorites in a completely new way.

Isley Bros+ Keith Sweat and the Landers Center (March 14)

There are few musical acts more legendary than the Isley Brothers, who have been churning out classic hits since the late 1950s. Featuring original members Ronald and Ernie Isley, the group will soon be headed to the Landers Center for an evening of sweet soul music featuring guests Keith Sweat and Keke Wyatt.

Aaron Lee Tasjan at Growlers (March 15)

Songwriter, singer, and sideman guitarist (New York Dolls, Drivin’ n’ Cryin’, Everest) Aaron Lee Tasjan is a true musical chameleon with a seemingly endless array of musical styles, ranging from country-rock to funk. That said, he has most often earned comparisons to singer/songwriters like Harry Nilsson, Tom Petty, and Randy Newman, which ain’t bad company to say the least.

Optic Sink + Greg Cartwright at Lamplighter Lounge (March 15)

Before heading out of town to record their third album, local synth-bunkers Optic Sink will be hitting the stage at the Lamplighter to preview some of their new songs. As if that wasn’t enough, they’ll also be joined by Hartle Road and Greg Cartwright, making this arguably the finest local line-up of the month.

Bright Eyes w/ Hurray for the Riff Raff at Minglewood Hall (March 17)

Over 20 years, Bright Eyes and lead singer Conor Oberst have become synonymous with cripplingly melancholy indie rock that speaks directly to the sad boys and girls across the globe. With his warbling voice and deeply intelligent songwriting, Oberst has famously been called his generation’s Bob Dylan. Don’t forget to bring a few tissues to dry your tears on your way to the venue.

Kraftwerk at Overton Park Shell (March 25)

The Shell Yeah! Benefit Series has brought many notable performers to Overton Park over the years, but this just might be their crown jewel. Kraftwerk–the pioneering German electronic group that forever changed the face of popular music–will be bringing their world-renown multi-media extravaganza to the Shell for what is arguably the most anticipated show of the spring.

Paul Taylor at The Green Room (March 26)

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of his critically acclaimed EP “The Old Forest Trail,” Paul Taylor will be returning home from the Great White North for a rare performance at the Green Room at Crosstown Arts. Paul, a multi-instrumentalist who has worked with a countless number of Memphis musicians, is well-known around these parts for his musicianship and abilities as a live performer and is sure to draw a great crowd.

Heavy Meddle Fest at Meddlesome Brewing Co. (March 29)

Cordova’s Meddlesome Brewing Co. is rocking the suburbs yet again with their annual Heavy Meddle Fest, a free day-long festival of face-melting metal. This year’s line-up is particularly stacked, featuring performances from some of the area’s best hard rocking acts, including Epoch of Unlight, Ohms, Anemoia, and others.

Betor Fest at the Hi Tone (March 30)

Betor Fest, the annual fundraising concert for the harm reduction non-profit A Betor Way, has quickly become one of the best days for local music and a great way to give back to a critical cause. This year’s line-up is their biggest and best yet, featuring a full slate of some of the city’s best rock acts.

The post 10 Must-See Concerts for March ’25 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Syl Johnson-“Is It Because I’m Black”

“After Martin Luther King got killed, I wanted to write a song…. I didn’t want to write no song about hating this people or hating that people… I really didn’t have no vendetta against people. It’s a sympathy song,” soul artist Syl Johnson once said about his mournful anthem “Is It Because I’m Black.” Released during the tumultuous year of 1969, the slow-burning track laments a world that willfully tries to hinder the opportunities of people based on race. Despite the song’s obvious heartache, Johnson still sounds prideful and resistant.

MonoNeon-“Breathing While Black”

Like Sly Stone before him, MonoNeon is probably best known for his funked-out feel-good bangers, but still has the ability to come out with thoughtful laments about the harsher realities of the world. During the revolutionary summer of 2020 that found tens of millions of people hitting the streets as part of the Black Lives Matter movement, MonoNeon released this modern classic that became a rallying cry for many here in the Bluff City.

Jordan Occasionally- “Dear Broad, Bingham, and Beale”

As with MonoNeon, Jordan Occasionally is equally as capable of soundtracking a protest as they are at filling up the dance floor. From the very beginning, the nonbinary activist’s music has always been unapologetically political, which is the case with this anti-gentrification track that speaks to the frustrations and anger felt by many when their neighborhoods seem to be sold off to the highest bidder.

Negro Terror-“The Voice of Memphis”

Before bandleader Omar Higgin’s untimely death in 2019, Memphis’ all-Black hardcore band Negro Terror had established themselves as one of the city’s most exciting bands and seemed poised for a national breakout. While the pain of Omar’s loss still lingers, the band’s music lives on, especially “Voice of Memphis,” a reworking of the white-supremacist/neo-Nazi skinhead band Skrewdriver’s “Voice of Britain.” Now THAT is punk rock.

Brandon Lewis-“Black Man”

Brandon Lewis’ “Black Man,” which was also released during the summer of 2020, is both deeply personal and a call to pride for Black men everywhere. “Part of being an artist, my responsibility is to not just make the things that we dance and groove to, but also music that implements a sense of social awareness,” Lewis said at the time. The song’s video is also a beautiful homage to the city’s deep ties to the struggle for racial justice, largely shot at the historic Clayborn Temple where the iconic “I AM A Man” signs were first produced.

The post “Talking to the People, Ya’ll:” 5 Memphis Anthems for Black History Month appeared first on We Are Memphis.

The genre’s development was bolstered by legendary producers like Willie Mitchell, who worked with Al Green and Ann Peebles to craft timeless tracks. Meanwhile, Stax Records became the epicenter of southern soul, producing hits by artists such as Isaac Hayes, Sam & Dave, and Carla Thomas. Their contributions created a unique musical identity that continues to resonate today.

Key Characteristics of Memphis Soul Music

• Emotional Vocals: Inspired by gospel, singers like Otis Redding and Al Green brought unparalleled depth and passion to their performances.
  
• Dynamic Instrumentation: A hallmark of Memphis soul is its use of brass and strings, creating a rich, layered sound.
  
• Gritty Production: The lo-fi and unpolished quality of recordings from studios like Stax added authenticity to the music.
  
• Collaborative Spirit: Bands like Booker T. & the MG’s, an integrated group of musicians, epitomized the unity and innovation of the genre.
  
• Cultural Impact: Themes of love, resilience, and community resonate deeply, reflecting the experiences of Memphis’ African American community.

Contemporary Artists and Resurgence

While legends like Al Green and Otis Redding paved the way, contemporary artists continue to carry the torch of Memphis music. Artists like Don Bryant and Susan Marshall blend traditional elements with modern influences, ensuring the genre evolves while honoring its roots.

Platforms like streaming services and documentaries such as Stax: Soulsville U.S.A. have reignited interest in southern soul, connecting a new generation of listeners to Memphis’s rich musical history.

Memphis Soul Music Venues

Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Located at the original site of Stax Records, this museum immerses visitors in the rich history of Memphis soul with exhibits featuring iconic artists like Isaac Hayes and Carla Thomas.

Beale Street: As the heart of Memphis’s entertainment district, Beale Street offers live performances that celebrate the city’s musical legacy, from rhythm and blues to modern interpretations of soul music.

Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum: A Smithsonian-affiliated museum that explores the intersections of rock and American soul music, highlighting Memphis’ pivotal role in shaping both genres.

Legendary Memphis Soul Artists: Past & Present

Southern Avenue

This soulful ensemble combines elements of soul, blues, and gospel to create a fresh and energetic sound. Led by the powerhouse vocals of Tierinii Jackson and the skillful guitar playing of Ori Naftaly, Southern Avenue has garnered acclaim for their captivating live performances and soul-stirring lyrics. Tracks like “Don’t Give Up” and “Keep On” showcase their ability to infuse traditional soul with a modern edge.

Valerie June

With her distinctive voice and poetic songwriting, Valerie June has become a rising star in the contemporary soul music scene. Her music effortlessly blends elements of folk, blues, and soul, creating a unique and captivating sound. Songs like “Pushin’ Against a Stone” and “Astral Plane” highlight her soulful delivery and introspective lyrics, showcasing her ability to transcend genres.

Talibah Safiya

Talibah Safiya’s music style is a captivating fusion that defies easy categorization. Drawing from a wide range of influences, her music seamlessly blends elements of soul, R&B, jazz, and electronic sounds to create a truly unique sonic landscape. Safiya’s velvety smooth vocals, combined with her poetic lyricism, create an intimate and emotive listening experience. Her music often carries a sense of introspection, exploring themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. With her rich and soulful voice, Talibah Safiya effortlessly navigates through genres, delivering a mesmerizing blend of contemporary and timeless sounds.

Don Bryant

A veteran of the Memphis soul music scene, Don Bryant has recently experienced a resurgence in his career. Known for his work as a songwriter and performer for Hi Records in the 1960s and 1970s, Bryant returned to the spotlight with his critically acclaimed album “Don’t Give Up on Love.” With his smooth and soulful vocals, Bryant continues to captivate audiences with his timeless sound and heartfelt delivery.

Joyce Cobb

A true legend of Memphis soul, Joyce Cobb has been a staple of the city’s music scene for decades. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Cobb’s music embodies the soul’s essence. From her early hits like “Dig the Gold” to her recent releases, such as “Love Infection,” Cobb’s soulful delivery and captivating performances continue to captivate audiences.

The Bo-Keys

This Memphis-based band blends soul, funk, and R&B into their signature sound. With a lineup of seasoned musicians and members who have played with iconic artists like Al Green and Otis Redding, The Bo-Keys deeply understands the soul music tradition. Their albums, including “Heartaches by the Number” and “Got to Get Back!”, exemplify their ability to deliver grooves that honor the rich legacy of Memphis soul.

Al Green: Known as the king of Memphis soul, Green’s smooth voice and hits like Let’s Stay Together and Love and Happiness made him a global icon. His collaborations with Willie Mitchell at Hi Records defined the sophisticated sound of the genre.

Otis Redding: Often hailed as one of the greatest soul singers, Redding’s tracks like Dock of the Bay remain timeless anthems. His emotive delivery and profound lyrics embody the essence of soul music.

Sam & Dave: With classics like Soul Man, this duo epitomized the energy and harmony of American soul music. Their work with Stax’s house band remains a defining example of the genre.

Isaac Hayes: A trailblazer of Memphis music, Hayes’s deep baritone voice and orchestral arrangements brought sophistication to the genre. His work on the Shaft soundtrack earned him an Academy Award.

Carla Thomas: Dubbed the “Queen of Memphis Soul,” Thomas’s hit Gee Whiz showcased her vocal elegance and helped establish Stax Records.

You might also be interested in: Famous Memphis Musicians | Memphis Singers

The post Memphis Soul Music – Past and Present appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Prior to the concert, we caught up with both women for a preview of what fans can expect from the most anticipated show of the year so far.

Before we get into the upcoming show, let’s play a bit of catch-up. You both released some of our favorite projects of 2024, which we’d love to hear about, but let us know what else you’ve been up to in recent weeks/months:

Marcella Simien: I’m feel so honored and flattered! Thank you for supporting and listening to the new music. I’ve been building a new live experience involving a cylindrical art installation I’ve built with my amazing group of collaborators: my husband Dustin, plus Yvonne Bobo and Graham Burks. It’s a metal structure Graham and I designed and Yvonne did a beautiful fabrication. When we build it out for shows, we adhere screens on the exterior and we project imagery onto the cylinder. It’s been a really exciting new chapter and it’s allowed me to integrate my visual art degree into my music career in a whole new way. I just released a 90’s club inspired dance song I wrote with Ryan Peel called Manifest It. I’m about to release the deluxe version of the album including remixes, instrumentals, a meditation track and an alternate version of Lelia. I’m really excited to be exploring new sonic avenues and writing more than ever! Also been integrating music into special yoga monthly events I’ve been offering around Memphis. Just played Sony Hall in NYC this weekend. Feeling overjoyed to be able to do the work I’m currently doing.

Talibah Safiya: Lately, I’ve been focused on my next rollout for a new project. I’ve been reading a lot, cooking, resting, hanging out with my boo. We’re very much in winter mode.

How did this collaborative concert first come together, and have you two ever worked together before?

MS: Talibah and I actually met through Memphis’s favorite music advocate, Elizabeth Cawein, in 2018 where we were partnered up for the first annual Tambourine Bash. We developed a mutual admiration for each other’s work and then reconnected in 2023 where Talibah invited me to play the frottoir and sing background vocals on Black Magic. Then it sparked ann excitement about working together. I joined her at Riverbeat, she joined me at Overton Park Shell. Then I did a lil percussion and sang on her song “Sure Thang.” And we just both have a lot of parallels in our work and similar ideologies. I’m honored to call Talibah a friend and a sister in sound- because she is truly a brilliant artist who inspires me.

TS: Our first time working together was for the Tambourine Bash in 2019 (love to Elizabeth Cawein of MEM). I recently found a recording of us rehearsing for the first time and we just sound so good singing “Bag Lady” by Erykah Badu. Since then, we’ve added some fairy dust to a few tracks for each other and made guest appearances at each other’s shows. That seed started a friendship that has been watered over time.

Without giving away too much, what can fans expect in terms of what you have planned for the show? Will you be performing together, separately, or a bit of both?

MS: We will def do a lil somethin together! We have our own sets, but there will definitely be collaboration happening. We have sonic elements of African, Blues, Electronic, Creole and ofcourse Soul. Since my new album was me on all the instruments I’m entering new territory, working with electronics as well as live instrumentation. It’s going to be a fun and entirely new way to experience my music.

TS: We will be doing our own thing and supporting each other. We want our audiences to connect because we have such similar themes and sonic journeys, we know they’d be delighted to discover one through the other.

Infinity Stairs (the A/V project of Graham Burks) will be providing visuals during the show as well. For the uninitiated, could you tell us a bit about his work and how you all collaborated for this particular show?

MS: I saw Graham’s work when he did his first maiden voyage of his project Infinity Stairs that he and Thomas Corbin have been developing. They did something at Black Lodge and I saw video and I was completely blown away at the experience. I thought I was going to be a digital cinema major when I first got into MCA, and had dreams of being a music supervisor. So my love for placing music with imagery and vice versa- started very young watching Michel Gondry films where Jon Brion worked on the score and a huge inspiration for me was Mark Mothersbaugh and Wes Anderson and those soundtracks helped shape my music taste early on as a pre-teen. I always wanted to dig into imagery with music, because since I was a kid I was a BIG dreamer and when I let my imagination lead the way I was able to tap into a whole other level of my artistry.

And so seeing what Graham was doing cracked my consciousness on video art wide open!!! I had been teaching his song Graham III voice lessons and then reached to him about collaborating for this new show idea I had. Dustin and I started with a geodesic dome we bought and built that did not go as planned so we tried another structure for the Eyes On music video and that was cool but we knew we could do better and I wanted a softer edge, a round shape, I intentionally wanted soft lines for this because it lends itself to the content of the album. Circles are wonderful places to connect and sit in community. So we created another circular shape, the cylinder.

Graham and I have worked closely for the last year developing the show. I knew the color story of the album as I was writing the songs, I knew going into the project that I wanted the live experience to be otherworldly. I used chakra points that related to the stories of the songs and the colors that corresponded with those chakra points. I referenced elements in nature, celestial patterns and ether. And there’s just so much compelling imagery that Graham and Corbin put together based on a long idea sheet I wrote out of what I envisioned would resonate with each song. Each song has its own lil visual matrix that helps to tell the story. I don’t wanna give away too much.

Graham is a genius at projection mapping and he’s not only a brilliant multi-instrumentalist but he is a bonafide computer whiz. Dustin and I have learned so much from him. Then with Dustin’s knowledge of live sound and his visual art background working in glass sculpture and neon signs for over 20 years. And Thomas Corbin has a great eye, and our aesthetic is aligned, so when we all lend our talents – it makes for a stellar team. I feel blessed to be creating with these folks who are just as excited about the work as I am!

Graham uses state of the art technology and outdated old tech too in his visual creations. Which I love! He has an appreciation for the old and is up to speed on all the current innovative tools for our toolbox. He’s worked on shows at the planetarium, he’s working on visuals for some upcoming projects on a national level. I’m so glad people are taking notice on a National scale, because he is insanely talented, he and his work deserves to be celebrated. This is such an innovative exciting moment for Memphis music. I love this creation of more immersive multi-disciplinary work.

This is an amazing way to help kick off 2025, so we don’t want to be greedy, but do you have anything else planned for the year that we should be anticipating?

MS: 2025 is going to be fun, I cannot wait for Talibah’s new music- I got to hear her new body of work… and y’all! I’m so excited. headed out to play the Legendary Rhythm and Blues cruise literally the next day after the Crosstown Theater show! Then headed to play Montreal in February.

I have some dates as a special guest with my father’s band in the spring. I’ll be down in New Orleans around JazzFest for a few solo and special guest performances. We are planning to bring this new show overseas. And I have another single slated to come out in the coming months. And who knows? Maybe you’ll see me and Talibah on tour together in the future!

TS: New music, of course!

Event Details

• What: Marcella Simien ft. Infinity Stairs + Talibah Safiya
• When: January 25, 2025
• Time: Doors 7pm | Show 7:30pm
• Where: Crosstown Theater (1350 Concourse Ave, Memphis, TN 38104)
• Tickets: HERE

The post Two Memphis Queens–Marcella Simien and TalibaH Safiya–Team Up for a Special Performance at Crosstown Theater appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Cyrena Wages-”Unwrap Me”

Singer-songwriter Cyrena Wages has really mastered her particular blend of soulful country this year, which serves her well on this new holiday tune. As is true with many enduring holiday classics, “Unwrap Me” has a truly timeless sound that is sure to make it a local yuletide favorite for years to come.

Strong Nog: A Small Batch Holiday Compilation

23 songs for the price of one? Now that’s a holiday deal. Just last week, Small Batch Records released their 5th annual holiday compilation called Strong Nog, which features some killer tracks from Memphis rockers J.D. Reager, Alicja Trout, Graham Winchester, and Jeff Hulett. 

GloRilla and Kehlani-Xmas Time

It felt kinda inevitable, didn’t it? Coming off the biggest year of her career–and possibly the biggest year for any single Memphis rapper in history–Big Glo takes a victory lap with the track “Xmas Time” featuring Kehlani. Yet another banger from an artist at the top of her game. 

Cheyenne Marrs- “Santa’s Lament”

Released around this time last year, Cheyenne Marr’s “Santa’s Lament” is a nice mid-tempo indie rock track from the perspective of Old St. Nick himself. With a mix of melancholy and humor, Marrs embodies a Santa who is simply worn down from all the hustle and bustle and ready to kick his feet up until next year.

DJ Paul-‘A Xmas Flock’

Only Three 6 Mafia’s DJ Paul could flip the holiday classics “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Jingle Bells” into a crunk anthem about robbery and murder. To quote the song’s refrain, “Yeah Ho Ho Ho.”

William Bell-”Every Day Will Be Like a Holiday” 

We’re not necessarily ready to crown this William Bell classic as the greatest Memphis Christmas song of all time, but we can say that it should be included near the top on any respectable list. Truly one of the best songs ever released by the criminally underrated Stax soul singer. 

“Merry Like This”-KIRBY

For a more contemporary pop R&B sound, check out KIRBY’s “Merry Like This,” an upbeat and danceable jam from local singer KIRBY that is a great reminder that not every holiday song needs to be a slow-burner.

“If Christmas Can’t Bring You Home”-Reigning Sound

Quietly nestled in the middle of Reigning Sound’s excellent 2005 album Home for Orphans is an unexpected holiday tune that has become a local favorite over the ensuing years. With Greg Cartwright’s songwriting and the band’s signature “garage rock meets soul” sound, “If Christmas Can’t Bring You Home” is a winner.

“Let It Snow”-Valerie June

It’s a tall task to put a unique and memorable twist on a holiday classic, especially one as ubiquitous as “Let It Snow,” but Valerie June makes it look easy on this rendition. Of course it helps when you have a voice as distinctive as Ms. June’s, which is both playful and warm.

“Rock and Roll Christmas”-Cordell Jackson

Cordell Jackson–the rockabilly pioneer and the first woman on earth to own and operate her own rock ‘n’ roll label–can also claim to have arguably the rarest and most sought-after Christmas single on earth. Her 1956 romp “Rock And Roll Christmas” can be found on various reissue compilations, but if you’re lucky enough to come across an original 45, you’ll be having a very merry Christmas indeed. 

The post WAMM in Rotation: Holiday Spectacular! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage

December 7th at the Orpheum Theater

Looking for some classic family-friendly fun? Everyone’s favorite holiday classic will come to life in a spectacular new touring production at the Orpheum. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang as they sing, dance, and learn the true meaning of Christmas!

Rachel Maxann’s Holiday Spirits: A Christmas Special with Friends

December 13 at The Green Room at Crosstown Arts

Americana singer-songwriter Rachel Maxann has has a big year, so it only seems fitting that she ends it with a bang. With her signature blend of folk, soul, and blues, Rachel will fill the night with festive spirit and powerful storytelling. Expect a few musician friends to join her along the way!

Ice Ice Baby: A Holiday Variety Show

December 13th at the Hi Tone

If you’re looking for a bit of slightly-scandalous variety to spice up the holidays, look no further than the Hi Tone’s upcoming holiday variety show, which promises a smorgasbord of entertainment, including music, dancing, and burlesque.

Wiseacre Christmas Party

December 14th at Wiseacre on Broad

As you throw down some of the best beer in Memphis, enjoy the equally tasty tunes of the MDs, the city’s best Booker T & the MGs tribute act as they perform that group’s classic Christmas album “In The Christmas Spirit,” along with some other favorites.

Lucero Family Christmas

December 14th at Minglewood Hall

Country punks Lucero are returning to Minglewood Hall for the latest iteration of their annual Family Christmas. This year’s event is an especially heavy-hitter, including special guests Slobberbone, Rattlesnake Milk, and Dirty Streets.

Lindsey Stirling’s Snow Waltz Tour

December 16th at the Cannon Center

Violinist Lindsey Stirling mixes dance and acrobatics into her unique interpretations of holiday staples such as “Sleigh Ride,” “Joy to the World,” and “Deck the Halls,” plus a few originals. Her concert performances take their cues from the 14-track album “Snow Waltz,” which isn’t your everyday Christmas album.

Mark Edgar Stuart & The BlueShift Ensemble 3rd Annual X-mas Show

December 18th at The Green Room at Crosstown Arts

One of Memphis’ most beloved singer-songwriters teams up with the city’s premiere chamber music ensemble for yet another evening of holiday music. This year, Stuart is bringing along some special guests, including local favorites Savannah Brister, Calvin Barnes, & Alexis Grace.

Santa Rave

December 20th at Growlers

If you’re looking to get loose and dance those extra holiday calories off, Growlers looks like a great place to do just that at their annual Santa Rave. In addition to a regular slate of live music, Growlers has increased their DJ sets over the past year, regularly packing out the house with a variety of EDM and pop-oriented shows. So what, exactly, is a Santa rave? To be honest, we have no clue, but we’re excited to find out.

The 4th Annual Christmas Gala

December 21st at the Coronet

For something a little more “grown and sexy,” check out this soulful evening of music at the Coronet, featuring live performances from R&B singers Courtney Little & Anthony Q Tha Singer. Hot 107’s Dj Shon Teezy will be on the 1s & 2s all evening as well.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

December 22nd at the Orpheum Theater

Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects – capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting.

The post Your 2024 Guide to Live Holiday Music in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.

The Artists

When it comes to homegrown talent, Memphis has been one of the world’s greatest musical hotbeds for the better part of a century. From all-time greats such as Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Isaac Hayes to cult heroes such as Big Star and Furry Lewis, there does indeed seem to be something in the water. 

But while our rich history is always a reason to be thankful, you don’t have to jump into a time machine to find world-class artists. At this particular point in time, Glorilla may be the biggest female star on earth not named Taylor or Beyonce, and artists such as IMAKEMADBEATS, Taliba Safiyah, Marcella Simmien, Southern Avenue, MonoNeon, Valerie June, and Pooh Sheisty have become nationally-recognized figures. That said, some of the city’s greatest art has always been created quietly in the shadows, which remains true to this day.

Radio Stations

In this era of streaming, bluetooth, and other technological advancements that have made listening to music easier than ever, tuning in to terrestrial radio can often feel like a relic of a bygone era. In fact, for many places–especially those who are lacking in community stations– the radio is basically obsolete (unless you just have an affinity for hearing the same 7 songs on repeat ad nauseum). 

Memphis radio, however, is just built different. This is particularly true of community stations such as WEVL and WYXR who allow amateur DJs to share their own favorite tunes, disrupting the monotony of corporate radio and putting unique, strange, and local music back on the airwaves. 

Museums 

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sun Studios, the Memphis Rock N Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame, Graceland, the Memphis Music Hall of Fame…the sheer number of music-focused museums in Memphis alone is staggering, but even more so when considering their quality. 

Seriously folks, people travel from all across the world to visit our cultural heritage sites, especially those that sit on hallowed ground, like Sun and Stax. If you’ve never been–or if it’s been since that 6th grade field trip–do yourself a favor and take a visit. We can guarantee that you won’t regret it.

Record Stores

Although Memphis has lost several beloved record stores in the past couple of decades (RIP Cats, Spin Street, Pop Tunes, Audiomania, River Records, and all of our other fallen comrades), the city still boasts two of the nation’s best in Shangri-La and Goner Records, each of which has been recognized by national publications such as Rolling Stone, NPR, Paste, and others. Add the new kid on the block River City Records to the list and Memphis truly has a wealth of music-buying options in quality if not quantity. Keep all three in mind this year as you begin your holiday shopping, because shopping local is always in vogue. 

Venues

Speaking of quality over quantity, Memphis’ live music scene could undoubtedly use a few more live music venues, especially when considering our overabundance of great talent. This, however, is a piece about what we’re thankful for, and that certainly applies to the many great venues that we do have. Whether you prefer catching a headlining superstar at the FedEx Forum or an experimental show at the Lamplighter with 7 other lucky strangers, Memphis has a bit of something for everyone, you just have to be willing to put yourself out there.

Non-Profits

Aside from a very lucky few, most musicians are not able to sustain themselves on creating music alone, at least not without a little help. Thankfully, Memphis has seen a plethora of excellent organizations spring up over the past few years whose mission is to help give our musicians the support and resources that they need. Chief amongst them are Music Export Memphis, the Memphis Slim Collaboratory, and the Soulsville Foundation, all of whom work tirelessly to ensure that Memphis remains a world-class music city. Like all non-profits, all of these organizations depend on the support of the community to continue their missions, so consider supporting them this holiday season if you can.

Recording Studios

From iconic studios such as Royal, Ardent, and Sam Phillips to newer ventures such as High/Low, Electraphonic, and Southern Grooves, Memphis has once again become a world-class studio town that attracts talent from both near and far. Although they often go unnoticed by the general public, studios are the life-blood of any vigorous music scene. So whether you are looking for a state-of-the-art modern facility or a charmingly dusty analog set-up, Memphis has got the goods.

Festivals and Series

With all due respect to the Beale Street Music Festival, who we hope to see make a triumphant return in 2025, Memphis was sorely lacking in large-scale music festivals and similar events for decades. Thankfully, things are certainly trending in the right direction, thanks in large part to the emergence of Mempho, who have introduced both the Mempho Music Fest and Riverbeat in the past several years. They are certainly not alone in introducing or continuing great live music series, though. The Overton Park Shell’s Orion Free Concert Series, the Botanic Garden’s Live at the Garden series, Gonerfest, WYXR’s Raised by Sound Fest, Tone’s annual Juneteenth celebration, and Cooper-Young’s Porch Fest are all beloved institutions that help bring excellent live music to Memphians throughout the year.

Memphis Record Pressing

Did you know that Memphis is the home to the fastest-growing vinyl manufacturer in the United States and one of the largest producers of vinyl on earth? If not, then consider this something new to be thankful for. MRP, which is located on a sprawling complex in Bartlett, has taken advantage of the vinyl resurgence to become the go-to pressing plant for many of the world’s biggest artists. In addition to the many new jobs that they’ve added to the community, there is something undeniably special about pulling out your favorite records and seeing the words “Memphis Record Pressing” etched into the dead wax.

The Memphis Listening Lab

So far, we’ve tried to keep this list pretty general, focusing on larger communities rather than individual entities. When it comes to the Memphis Listening Lab, however, that’s just not possible, because there is nothing quite like it anywhere else on earth. A massive free music library boasting 12,000 LPs, 30,000 45s, 20,000 CDs, and upwards of a thousand music books, the MLL is one of the city’s most distinctive spaces and an invaluable resource for music lovers. In addition to their vast library, the Lab also has a gorgeous, ultramodern sound room that regularly hosts album listening events, release parties, artist Q&As, and much more. 

The post 10 Reasons for Memphis Music Fans to Be Thankful This Year appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Memphis music is truly unstoppable, constantly evolving and shaping the soundscape with its rich history and innovative artists. Every month brings fresh talent and exciting new releases, making it clear that the city’s musical legacy is as strong as ever. November has been no exception, with an impressive lineup of projects that showcase the heart and soul of Memphis’ diverse music scene. Here are five standout releases we’ve been playing on repeat this month, and we’re sure you’ll love them as much as we do. Dive in and discover your next favorite Memphis artist!

Al Green-”Everybody Hurts”

Although Al Green’s recently-released cover of R.E.M.’s 1992 classic “Everybody Hurts” was certainly not something we were expecting, the iconic soul singer’s excellent rendition of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” from last year gave us at least an inkling that such things were possible. Ever since Johnny Cash scored a late-career hit with his cover of Nine Inch Nails’ dour “Hurt,” aging legends have often returned to the deep well of angsty Gen X anthems for inspiration. Count this one amongst the best, especially as Green is able to imbue the song with a sense of optimism. 

In his social media posts announcing the song, the good Reverend wrote “Recording ‘Everybody Hurts,’ I could really feel the heaviness of the song, and I wanted to inject a little touch of hope and light into it. There’s always a presence of light that can break through those times of darkness.” Amen.

IMAKEMADBEATS-”MAGIC”

Last week, producer extraordinaire IMAKEMADBEATS made his triumphant return with a mesmerizing performance of his new album WANDS at the Planetarium. As is true with albums such as J. Dilla’s Donuts, WANDS is best experienced in-full, but to keep with the theme of this article, we’ll suggest starting with “MAGIC,” one of the album’s many stand-outs. If you haven’t check out the album yet (and you absolutely should), think of it as “Lo-Fi Hip-Hop Beats to Study and Travel the Cosmos To.”

Hitkidd-”Lookin’ For Ah Trick”

Earlier this month, Memphis producer Hitkidd released his newest album Hitkidd For President, yet another collection of trunk-rattling bangers that proves crunk is still very much alive. As he’s been known to do in the past, Hitkidd assembled some of Memphis’ baddest women for a posse cut with the undeniably great title ”Lookin’ For Ah Trick.” Featuring Jucee Froot, La Chat, and the late great Gangsta Boo, Hitkidd transports us back to the elbow-throwing mid-2000s. Also, shout out to Talibah Safiya, who provides a gorgeous outro to the album on the track “Land of the Free.”

General Labor-”Calculator”

From Lost Sounds to NOTS and Optic Sink, Memphis has been a strong breeding ground for kick-ass synth punk bands for a couple of decades now. General Labor, the duo of Thomas Corbin and Elijah Poston, have established themselves as worthy entrants into this tradition, especially with their new album  The Airtight Garage. Album opener “Calculator” has been released as the first single and is a perfect summation of the band’s sound and philosophy: using technology to rage against the machines.

ISpeakWithAGift Ft. Preauxx- “F.T.O.S.”

and is a perfect summation of the band’s sound and philosophy: using technology to rage against the machines.I honestly can’t remember if we’ve ever covered the artist ISpeakWithAGift before in this space, but if not, shame on us. The rapper-producer, who has been regularly releasing music for the better part of a decade, has earned a dedicated following with his unique production and smooth flow that seems to grow more skillful with each release. His newest single “F.T.O.S.,” which features an excellent feature from a very hungry sounding Preauxx, is a woozy banger reminiscent of early releases from A$AP Mob. 

The post WAMM In Rotation: 5 Songs for November ’24 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

For nearly a decade, IMAKEMADBEATS and the Unapologetic collective that he founded have been at the cutting-edge of music, reimagining what it means to be part of the Memphis music scene. However, as he has helped lead his company to newfound heights of public recognition, including high-profile collaborations with the Memphis Grizzlies and the PGA, MAD has often had to put his own music on the back-burner.

That all changes this Saturday, November 16th, when MAD will return to the stage for the first time since 2019 for an album release showcase that he’s calling “Masters of the Universe” at the Pink Palace Planetarium. Last month, we caught up with IMAKEMADBEATS at his Midtown studio Outerspace to learn more about the album and his upcoming live performance.

To set the stage a bit, MAD–née James Dukes–has been quietly managing a rare auto-immune disorder, which has often times made keeping up with his grueling schedule a near impossibility. This struggle, he says, was a primary inspiration for his new album.

“I was watching War of the Worlds recently, and I noted the fact that the humans could not defeat the aliens…the aliens were ultimately defeated by bacteria. Essentially, the strength of the aliens was undermined by one of the smallest things on earth. I started to feel like ‘Well, maybe I have this issue. Maybe my body wasn’t made to deal with earth’s atmosphere. Maybe I’m not from here…”

This idea birthed the concept for WANDS, his new (largely instrumental) concept album that begins with MAD leaving earth in search of his home, wherever in the cosmos that may be. “Everyone who knows me well knows that for the last 10 years or so I’ve been saying ‘One day I’m just gonna disappear.’ This album is the story of what happens when I finally disappear.”

Conceived as a movie score, WANDS is a soundtrack “for those daring to leave the familiar  behind, seeking solace and understanding in the vast expanse of the universe.” As such, there likely isn’t a more fitting place in the city to unveil it than at the Pink Palace, an organization that Unapologetic has already collaborated with for their ongoing Midnight Marauder series.

When I tell him that I find the budding relationship between Unapologetic and the Pink Palace as being beautifully serendipitous–-especially when considering Saturday night’s celestially-themed event–MAD is quick to correct me. 

“To quote V in V for Vendetta, ‘I don’t believe in coincidences, only the illusion of it.’ My life has been filled with instances that make you say ‘How the fuck did this happen at exactly the right time?’ I just lean into it at this point,” he explains. “As a matter of fact, when I first met [Pink Palace Executive Director] Kevin Thompson, he was like ‘Yeah man, I’m not sure if you’re into things like the planetarium’ and I had to stop him and say ‘Bro, you know my studio is called Outerspace right?!’”

This all brings up back to Saturday night’s “Masters of the  Universe” celebration, which will be held on MAD’s birthday. No coincidences, right? In addition to playing his new album, MAD will also be controlling the stars in the sky and unveiling new visuals, guiding the audience  through a mysterious interstellar journey.

“This is not just a performance,” reads the press release. “It is an odyssey where vulnerability becomes art, and  music becomes a portal to the magical realms beyond our world.” Honestly, we wouldn’t expect anything less.

Tickets for “Masters of the Universe” can be purchased here. The event begins at 7PM.

The post With His Upcoming “Masters of the Universe” Event, IMAKEMADBEATS Invites You to a Journey into the Cosmos appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Grave Rave at Meddlesome Brewing Co.

(Saturday, Oct. 26 at 8PM)

We’re guilty of oftentimes ignoring events happening outside of the city limits, but every once in a while, the ‘burbs grab our attention. Such is the case with Cordova-based Meddlesome Brewing’s upcoming Grave Rave, a DJ-filled evening of costumes, drink specials, and of course, plenty of dancing.

Halloween Bash ft. Supreme La Rock at Eight & Sand

(Saturday, Oct. 26 at 9PM)

There are few places better in Memphis to people-watch than Eight & Sand, the swanky vinyl lounge located in Central Station. This promises to be doubly true during this year’s costume party, which will feature a live set from the legendary Seattle DJ Supreme La Rock. With a vast myriad of musical tastes and a distinct style, Supreme La Rock is an internationally renown DJ who will have the party rocking late into the evening.

Daikaiju at Growlers

(Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 9PM)

As you probably know, the night before Halloween is commonly referred to as “Devil’s Night,” an informal holiday on which people regularly engage in jokes, pranks, vandalism, or parties. We mention this because there is probably no better band to celebrate this debaucherous occasion with than Daikaiju, the masked surf-rock heathens known for their absolutely unhinged live performances that regularly include smashed instruments, fire, and much much more.

TONE’s Terror at the Tower Party at Orange Mound Tower

(Thursday, Oct. 31 at 9PM)

TONE, the Orange Mound-based Black arts organization known for their huge annual Juneteenth event, has also started to get into the Halloween game with their ongoing Black October event. This year, they’ll be returning to Orange Mound Tower for a night of costumes, drinks, DJ’s, and more! Trust us when we say that nobody in town is throwing down quite like the good folks at TONE.

Bailey Bigger at the Green Room

(Thursday, Oct. 31 at 7:30PM)

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key for Halloween, or perhaps something evocative of Stevie Nicks-esque witchery, then Bailey Bigger’s upcoming album release show on Halloween night likely fits the bill. The Americana artist will be returning home for a special show celebrating the release of her new album Resurrection Fern. If the lead-off single “Witches and Warlocks” is any indication, this should be a memorable evening of haunting music from one of the city’s finest singer-songwriters.

Halloween Party w/ Louise Page, Joybomb,

Dr. Ew, Alicja Trout at Bar DKDC 

(Thursday, Oct. 31 at 9PM)

If rock n’ roll is indeed dead as many pundits have claimed, then its reanimated corpse will be making an appearance on Halloween night at Bar DKDC (along with a bit of pop, for good measure). A who’s-who of Memphis rock’s finest will be waking the spirits all night long in Midtown’s most fun (and coziest) venue. Costumes are, of course, highly encouraged.

Rock-n-Romp’s Halloween Spooktacular at Mud Island

(Saturday, Nov. 2 at 1PM)

Rock-n-Romp is back with a Halloween-themed family friendly concert at Mud Island, right outside of the Baron Von Opperbean lounge, the new immersive-experience being built inside the former site of Mud Island’s river museum. Music will be provided by Hope Clayburn’s Soul Scrimmage and a host of DJs. Great live music AND a sneak peek of the BOV lounge? Count us in.

The post Live Music Guide for Halloween in Memphis (2024) appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Memphis music is truly unstoppable, constantly evolving and shaping the soundscape with its rich history and innovative artists. Every month brings fresh talent and exciting new releases, making it clear that the city’s musical legacy is as strong as ever. October has been no exception, with an impressive lineup of projects that showcase the heart and soul of Memphis’ diverse music scene. Here are five standout releases we’ve been playing on repeat this month, and we’re sure you’ll love them as much as we do. Dive in and discover your next favorite Memphis artist!

Suroor-“!TOXIC!”

Memphis-based Pakistani hyperpop artist Suroor has gained quite the local following since dropping their debut album LAVENDER SHOWERS in 2023. Since then, their unique blend of pop–which borrows elements of Eastern genres such as bhangra and qawwali–has regularly been on display during their high-energy live shows. Today, Suroor is back with their newest single “TOXIC,” and it’s an absolute banger. Utilizing a classic Bollywood sample 3 different ways, Suroor has created a track that is both playful and aggressive, harkening back to the golden age of M.I.A.

Virghost-“MOP THA FLO”

Although he has been releasing music for over a decade, Memphis’ Virghost remains an underappreciated talent in the local hip-hop scene. To his credit, he just continues doing what he does best: regularly dropping gems that showcase both his verbal dexterity and the production skills of regular collaborator KingPin Da’ Composer. Virghost recently blessed us yet again with “Red on All Sides,” a three-track EP that is a great starting point for anyone who has missed out thus far. “MOP THA FLO,” which borrows liberally from the classic ‘90s Memphis sound, has been blasting in our car all month.

Marcella Simien-“Lelia”

Marcella Simien’s Louisiana roots have always been an integral part of her musical identity, but the Bayou State’s influence has never been stronger than on her new single “Lelia.” An ode to Simien’s great grandmother, “Lelia” begins with the sounds of the swamp, followed by a spoken-word tribute to a woman that Marcella never met, but whose influence is clearly felt. From there, the song absolutely floats, bringing the listener on a journey through time and space. The single is featured on the singer’s brand new album To Bend to the Will of a Dream That’s Being Fulfilled, which we’re sure we’ll spill more ink on soon.

Nonconnah-“An Escape From Doomscroll Valley”

Memphis noisegaze stalwarts Nonconnah recently dropped their new album Nonconnah vs. the Spring of Deception, their first in several years. As we’ve come to expect, the duo has once again delivered a masterclass in loud, messy, and oftentimes beautiful drone. While the album is best listened to as a cohesive whole, the opening track “An Escape From Doomscroll Valley” is a great way to tip your toes into their particular brand of deep and murky water.

Chinese Connection Dub Embassy “Stay Focused”

CCDE, Memphis’ premiere reggae act, is back with a laid-back and motivational new single featuring Kween Jasira called “Stay Focused.” Featuring a classic dub beat, the song is a reminder to not let outside distractions, haters, or anything else knock you off of your course. Our only complaint is that the song wasn’t released a couple of months ago, as its the perfect summer time jam.

The post WAMM in Rotation: 5 Songs for October ’24 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

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Cover Photo: Justin Friesen

Mak Ro–the soulful duo of Filipino-American cousins Eric Makapugay and Kristoffer Ruaro–have been self-releasing music since 2019, winning over a dedicated local fanbase in the process. Now, the group is finally prepared to release their debut album, a beautiful and emotionally honest 8-song LP entitled Love in the Dark. Set to release on Friday, October 18, the duo have already released the first single from the album, a sensual slow-burner called “Hero.”

We caught up with Mak Ro to discuss their origins as a group, the process of creating the album, and what fans can expect over the next few weeks.

Before we get into the new album, let’s talk about your musical journey so far. Tell me a bit about how you both first got into music and when you began working together.

Kris: Being cousins, we’ve been around each other our whole lives since our families grew up super tight. But I’ve been singing my whole life and at some point – after trying a ton of different hobbies – Eric’s parents gave him a guitar and he ended up dropping everything else. Prior to becoming Mak Ro though, we both had our own separate music projects – I was doing some solo stuff and Eric played guitar in a couple bands. It wasn’t until 2016 when we accidentally wrote “Elevator” from a seemingly inconsequential guitar riff that Eric improvised during a jam session. After that, we just kind of kept accidentally making more and more songs and we haven’t been able to stop since.

Eric: I still remember before I did music going to Kris’s singing performances watching him do his thing. He has always had that performance energy and movement that you just can’t forget. At the time, we had different musical tastes in terms of the artists we listened to, so when I started playing guitar at 13, we didn’t really play too much music together. We both took our own musical journeys around the 2010’s, but eventually our worlds linked when one of my bands needed a singer for a show. I called up Kris, and that was honestly the start of it all. We kept jamming together at family gatherings and that eventually led us to accidentally writing songs.

Photo by Kris Ruaro

Although you have been releasing music for years now, “Love in the Dark” will be your first full-length album. How did the process of crafting an album differ from making singles, and what was each of your roles in that process?

Kris: What’s funny is, when we make music, we’re not thinking, “Let’s create a hit single” or “We need to make an album.” Like with our singles, we just ride the waves of inspiration whenever they come, without the pressure to release something. That’s really important to us—it keeps our creative intentions pure and lets us be fearless in what we create. Over the past five years, we’ve written over a hundred songs, and at some point, we realized these eight tracks felt connected. From there, we just kept building the world and figuring things out as we went. Honestly, we’re still in the thick of it, so we’re not even sure where this whole process of presenting the album will take us. We’re letting the wind guide us and experiencing it all along with everyone else.

Eric: For us, it’s just whatever we’re feeling at the time. Writing the singles, we just threw a bunch of paint at the wall and shared songs once they felt really good to us. For the album, I feel like we threw a bunch of songs or diary pages on a table, and out of the pages that seemed to connect, those are the ones that ended up forming the book. Our creative process is always collaborative. We both have different technical skill sets but overall our vision is combined in every part of the process from the songwriting, producing, mixing, video editing, marketing, etc.

You continue to blend a variety of different musical genres on this project, which has become a calling card for ya’ll. Who and/or what were some of your sonic inspirations for this particular project?

Kris: I’m not the most knowledgeable when it comes to pinpointing musical styles or linking techniques to specific artists, but I’ve always loved a wide variety of music, and I think that naturally influences what I create. For example, the first album I ever bought was a Destiny’s Child CD from a gas station in the Philippines, which I obsessed over for a while. I was also hooked on Mariah Carey, Brian McKnight, Luther Vandross, Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, and tons of R&B growing up. My dad introduced me to classics like Jackson 5, Nat King Cole, and Donny Hathaway. Then, when the iPod came along, it was game over—I went through phases of country, EDM, singer-songwriters, pop, rock, Lady Gaga (and that one I’m still going through tbh).

Looking back, though, I’ve always been drawn to music that feels good, and having such a broad range of influences gives me more emotional shades to work with. Ultimately, when I’m writing lyrics or producing vocals, my goal is to create something that feels as good as the music I connect with.

Eric: I’m trying to remember the art that I was experiencing at the time, but in terms of sonic inspirations, I think I was listening to a lot of Rosalia, Men I Trust, Khruangbin, The Doors, Sam Gellaitry, Billie Holiday, Jordan Ward, and others at the time. I didn’t really think about listening to artists for inspiration on our album, although I’m sure a part of that came out from within my subconscious during the writing process. Usually, I unknowingly take inspiration from non-music related art as well, so it all just kind of blends together like a boiling stew. I don’t really think about genres too much, because in my head I’m like “ooh what if I combine this 808 bass sound with light-hearted drums on top of fluttering guitars, but with a twist of dissonant synth chords while making it all feel like it’s coming out of a broken speaker.” I listen to a lot of different kinds of music, so I take inspiration from it all, put it in a boiling pot, stir it, and taste it until it feels good – because why not!

Photo by Justin Friesen

Of course making an album takes a whole team of people. Tell us about some of the people you worked with and what the recording process was like.

Kris: Yes, shoutout to our team—though it’s just the two of us! We’re really hands-on with our creative process and handle almost everything ourselves. Even when recording vocals, I prefer to be alone to fully dive into the moment without outside influences. From writing and production to marketing, press releases, and booking, it’s just Eric and me at the moment. However, we do collaborate with some amazing people. Specifically for Love in the Dark, Dr. Ford Music, our long-time friend and engineer, has mixed most of our tracks, and Randy Merrill at Sterling Sound mastered the album and pretty much our entire discography – and though we’re all in different cities, they always nail our vision. As for visuals, Jamie Harmon (Amurica Photo) really helped bring the album cover to life, and Morgan Bell (Belltoll Media) captures our videos with a unique, cinematic touch. Our team is small but mighty, and we love it that way.

Eric: We love the people we collaborate with, and we especially are appreciative of how open they are to our ideas. Our recording process is very minimal. We make the music at our home studio, and I’ll usually create the music with a combination of recording instruments, samples, and mixing. Kris records himself and writes the entire vocal production and lyrics. We combine the instrumentals, vocals, and lyrics that feel the best to us and filter out the ideas that we don’t fully resonate with. It’s a back and forth process that gives us a lot of flexibility, and we both are collaborating throughout every part of it.

Photo by Jamie Harmon

I imagine that you will have a few events and live performances to celebrate the album’s release. What are some things that fans should be on the look-out for?

Kris: In tandem with the album releasing, we are holding a few special events in October in Memphis because hometown eats first! On Thursday, October 3rd, we’re hosting a secret listening party at the Memphis Listening Lab at 7:00 PM. Very limited seats are available, so we ask that folks RSVP via our website. Also, on Saturday, October 19th, we’re holding our album release show at Crosstown Arts’ The Green Room at 7:30 PM. That night, we’ll be playing some of our discography favorites, as well as the full album! We have another cool thing planned for the end of October, but we’ll save that for another interview. Folks can get tickets at www.makromusicofficial.com or the links on our instagram bio.

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Bleu Levees ft. Dame Mufasa – “Hashtag”

There’s truly nothing better than when two formidable artists link up and join forces. Together they can elevate an already great song, and push it to a standout level. Case in point: “Hashtag,” Memphis rapper Bleu Levees latest single which also features Memphis heavyweight Dame Mufasa. The two seamlessly play off each other, as they trade their own signature styles over slithering production by EMPEE. Fingers crossed there’s more collabs like this in the future.

She’Chinah- “Gimme A Reason”

She’Chinah has an unparalleled voice. It wraps itself around you, slowly and purposefully as it paints a feeling of pure bliss. Don’t believe me? Listen to “Gimme A Reason,” She’Chinah’s latest single. It’s a sugary-sweet, uptempo offering that perfectly highlights her vocal prowess. Get familiar.

Therèse ft. Idaly Maceano – “Bitch You Thought”

The talent of Memphis’ female artists is unreal. These women consistently raise the bar with each new song, and “Bitch You Thought” is no different. The track is the latest from singer and rapper Therèse (formerly Mai Ty) who brings her trademark rich vocals and velvety delivery to some smooth, R&B beats courtesy of LJ1S. She also taps fellow Memphis rapper Idaly Maceano, who ferociously delivers a flawless guest verse. This is a must add to your most recent playlist.

Slimeroni – “Skyami”

On her newest single, Slimeroni starts the track by rapping the very question all her fans are asking: “Slime, where you been?” The answer is, thankfully, hard at work in the studio readying a slew of new music. To quench our thirst in the meantime, the Memphis artist offers “Skyami,” a track that perfectly pairs gritty, bouncing production with Slime’s relentless delivery. She sounds sharper and more confident than ever, making us that much more excited to hear what she’s been cooking up.

Cameron Bethany – “Want Me To”

You know that scene from The Office where Micahel Scott freaks out and tells everyone, “Oh my God it’s happening! Everyone stay calm!” as he runs out of the building? That’s almost exactly what I did the morning I woke up and saw a new song from Memphis singer Cameron Bethany had dropped. “Want Me To” is an absolute bop, complete with dance-ready, poppy production overwhich Bethany layers his soulful vocals. Put this on repeat as you close out summer 2024.

The post WAMM in Rotation: 5 songs for August ’24 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Our city’s soul is described by generosity that knows no bounds and the thousands of Memphians building community with each other on the daily. It’s the activism that stirring in our hearts, pushing each other and the world to see better and do better. It’s in the limitless innovation fueling insatiable curiosity and so, so much more. Memphis has always been a place of big hearts and even bigger ideas, where the spirit of soul finds its home. So, when you’re seeing your fellow Memphians’ faces across the city, you’re seeing a mirror reflecting our collective pride.

We’ll be sharing stories of how your fellow Memphians connect with our city through food, fitness, music, and so much more! Be sure to keep an eye out for billboards across the city featuring some familiar faces!

Meet DJ Alpha Whiskey

Memphis is a city with soul, and no one knows how to tap into that energy better than DJ Alpha Whiskey. As one of the city’s top DJs, she’s not just about spinning tracks—she’s all about connecting with Memphis on a deeper level. In this article, DJ Alpha Whiskey shares her favorite ways to experience the heart of Memphis, from hidden gems in the local music scene to the best spots for soaking in the city’s rich culture. Get ready to discover Memphis through the eyes (and ears) of a true local legend!

What are your top 3 places you love to visit in Memphis?
Aww man I know you said 3 but I have 5 places that I always recommend. They are my favorite places in the city and never let me down! Central Station Hotel, Hive Bagel & Deli, Andalusia, Sage, MBABAZI House of Style. 

How does Memphis as a city inspire you or impact the work that you do? 
Memphis is a city with a tremendous amount of soul and rich history. The musical legacy here is known around the world and it fuels creativity and passion in various forms. For someone like me who loves music and creativity , I am in my happy place. I am able to share my wonderful experiences and knowledge with people from all around the world when I travel to DJ. Also as an Air Traffic Controller I can literally say that we “Move the World” in Memphis because of FedEx and its international flights, delivering packages all over the world. We make sure those FedEx planes get in and out of Memphis safely, efficiently and expeditiously. 

What are you most excited to see happening in Memphis now?
I’m excited that our new Mayor Paul Young has been working hard to improve the city. That includes decreasing crime, improving our infrastructure, and investing in the youth. It takes time to build a better future , and I believe we are headed in the right direction . 

Is there another Memphian who has inspired you, impacted the work that you do, or who you’d like to shout out?
I have a few Memphians to shout out : Jared JB Boyd, DJ Crystal Mercedes, Jana Mitchell and Zach Word. These four individuals represent Memphis like no other and inspired me to do the same! 

How do you hope to inspire change in Memphis?
In addition to making people dance and having a wonderful time while DJing I have recently started my own nonprofit organization, Enlightened Leaders Initiative that will foster future leaders through STEM education, Agriculture , Leadership , Music, and Aerospace education nurturing well-rounded, innovative minds for a dynamic world. My purpose  is  work within the community to inspire youth to achieve their goals and dreams. 

The post Bring Your Soul – DJ Alpha Whiskey appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Photos c/o Spek Was Here

It’s raining when I arrive at the studio to meet Memphis trio Supa Glock Bros. Two of the three members, Spek Was Here and Dame Mufasa, are already there when I walk in. We start talking about anything and everything – the Kendrick vs. Drake beef, artists we’ve been heavy on, what’s new in Memphis – when the rain picks up and it starts to downpour. It’s suddenly the type of storm only a hot summer night recognizes, complete with thunder, lightning, and no visibility. “Hey, check on Co,” Dame suggests to Spek. “It’s crazy out there, I wanna make sure he’s good.” Spek replies that he’s already reached out to their third member (91’ Co) who confirmed he was safely on his way.

It’s an interaction that would stick out to me, not because of the overt display of consideration, but because I would later realize it was perfectly representative of who the trio were. Supa Glock Bros is more than three wildly talented musicians coming together for a fun side project. Supa Glock Bros is three wildly talented musicians who immensely respect each other both inside and outside the studio, which shines through in their art.

***

Spek, Dame, and Co each grew up immersed in music, though their introductions to this world were very different. “I got my start making music literally on Guitar Hero World Tour,” Spek recalls. “I’m not even joking. Like, playing Guitar Hero World Tour made me realize that, damn, music is actually fun.” As for Co, he was looking for an outlet growing up. “You start rapping as a way to find your voice before you actually find it,” he shares. “So, I found my voice through trying to find my voice rapping.”

Dame’s interest in music was formed by two things: his mom and writing. “My mom was a teen mom so as she grew up on rap, I grew up on rap. She listened to a lot of NWA, Tupac, DMX, Three 6 Mafia…but she also listened to like Nirvana, Prince, and Phil Collins so I was exposed to a lot of different styles thankfully,” Dame says. “I also always liked words. I just liked reading and trying to write short stories as a kid. Then in middle school, I discovered I could freestyle – I could rhyme and think of words really fast. People were impressed by my rapping but for me, it was just easy.”

Though their paths differed, the destination turned out to be the same. The three each found themselves heavily involved in the Memphis art community. By 2018, Spek and Dame had linked up and started working together under Spek’s former imprint, Studio 88 Recordings. Around the same time, Dame met Co at an art show at Crosstown for Co’s Paint Me Gold collective. “I liked his art so I got tapped into his music stuff as well. I thought it might be lame, because when you rap yourself, you think everyone else who raps is whack. But I was like, ‘oh shit, bro actually hard.’ I mentally added him to my list of people to keep an eye on – both to work with and competitively,” Dame laughs. 

After the three officially met, the music flowed almost instantly. Spek started creating beats specifically with Dame and Co in mind, and the two would spend their nights at the studio recording verses for his productions. Despite the seriousness they each took their art individually, there wasn’t a hesitation for any of them in collaborating. “We all respected each other,” Dame says frankly. “I knew Co was hard and I respected Spek as a creator. I’ve worked with a bunch of producers and engineers over the years and it was just always a different vibe with him. We’re different as a motherfucker, but we got the same taste artistically. It would be hard for me to find two guys who I vibe with so well and who I actually got this much respect for.”

Despite casually working together prior, it didn’t become a real project until the pandemic hit in 2020. Like most musicians at the time, the uncertainty of what the future held for artists forced them to grapple with some hard truths. “I was like legitimately going through an existential crisis,” Dame admits. “I felt that if I can’t create or perform, or if my music doesn’t matter…everything was different and I was like, what do I do?” Collectively, they all agreed that the one way to process everything and feel better was to record. Everything on the outside was changing, but the studio was still familiar. Among the safety of microphones and mix boards, Supa Glock Bros was born.

Speaking and spending time with Spek, Dame, and Co, it’s clear they are three very distinct individuals. When I ask how they blended their uniqueness into one unit as cohesive as Supa Glock Bros, I expected to hear about trials and tribulations or a difficult learning curve. Instead, they recount none of that. “I know in part of our core as a three-piece unit, there are things that we all identify with. That’s kind of, like, without question, right?” Spek explains. “We may have varying degrees of understanding or sentiments on these topics, lifestyle differences and similarities, but the one thing that draws us together is that we all share the common thing, and that is the Black experience. We live such entirely different lives from each other, but there’s always gonna be some varying degrees of overlap that’s gonna draw us back together.”

This is the foundation upon which all the other elements of the groups’ success rests on. With a shared vision, the group is able to create music, as they say, effortlessly. “Easily one of the favorite things about doing Supa Glock Bros is the fact that from jump street, this shit has been low effort -” Spek starts before both Dame and Co jump in to agree. “That’s the best part! It’s so fun and so easy, and that’s actually fire,” Dame adds.

Easiness and fun are two elements that are apparent when you listen to their music, but so is innate talent and natural chemistry. Spek’s mind creates beats made for Dame and Co to rap over. “Part of my homework is listening to these dudes rap, because I, being the engineer, should damn near know these songs better than they do, even though they’re the ones rapping on them,” he states. “So, I have to simply just listen and observe and connect the dots for certain lines. I have to be able to really take in the feelings of the emotions they’ve put on wax and either make a suggestion on how they can emphasize certain things better, or work the production to just make it even more expansive and dynamic than what it already is.”

For Dame and Co, working with each other as rappers only pushes their pens even harder. “It’s like being in a group project, and you don’t wanna be the one holding the group back,” Dame explains. “I know Co’s going to do what he needs to do, and if he doesn’t the first time, he won’t stop until he does. I’m the same way.” 

Just like in their songs, Co seamlessly picks up on Dame’s thoughts. “I think when you have somebody creating this amazing production and someone’s whose rapping ability is top tier it pushes you. It’s no longer ok to just rap real good,” Co says. “It’s a whole other thing now. I want to experiment with flow pockets. In Supa Glock Bros, we get to do that here AND rap really good at the same time.” 

Just because the journey with Supa Glock Bros has been refreshingly easy, doesn’t mean the trio have everything figured out. In fact, they humbly refute that. When we discuss their plans for the next year, they detail more music (follow-ups to their fantastic first projects, EP 1, EP 1.5 The Recoil, and EP 2), as well as more films and holiday-themed loosies, like the incredible recent drop “Spindependence Day Freestyle.”

Yet set among these plans, Spek offers another equally important element for the group’s future: patience. “We want to maintain this energy and consistency, while still continuing to be patient with ourselves. We’re gonna take time in just making the art and not rushing the process at all. I mean if we’re speaking on long term success, all long-term success takes time,” he muses. 

“There’s a level of patience with yourself and others that has to come with it,” he continues. “If the shit don’t work out right now, it doesn’t mean it’s not gonna ever work out. There’s always more to learn. And that’s not like insatiability. To almost counter, you can find satiation in there always being more knowledge to learn, right? Because that insatiability comes from, like, I’m never gonna be satisfied versus I’m satisfied with always being in a perpetual state of learning.”

As the three continue sharing stories about their mutual admiration for one another, I start to think back to when I first arrived at the studio and how they checked in on each other during the storm. It’s clear they respect each other, they support each other, and they deeply believe in each other. But they also genuinely care about each other. It’s something real, and this understanding and trust permeates into the fabric of their music. Separately as artists they’re incredibly good. But together? Fuck, they’re invincible. 

“I will put my money on this man’s production versus any producer in the entire city,” Dame says as he motions towards Spek. “And you not outrapping this man,” as he points to Co. “I just like quality and I understand quality. I feel like you can learn what good is, but when you naturally have ability and a taste level, you can’t settle,” he finishes. 

Spek nods and reinforces the sentiment by adding one simple, yet defining thought: “steel sharpens steel.”

The post Supa Glock Forever, Supa Glock Endeavors appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Nestled in the heart of South Memphis, Royal Studios stands as a testament to the city’s rich musical heritage. With a history that spans over six decades, this legendary recording studio has been a birthplace for countless hits and has played a pivotal role by shaping the sound of American music and being a leader in highlighting and preserving Black culture through music.

The Early Days

The rich history of Royal Studios begins with its origins as the Shamrock Theater, constructed in 1915. As one of Memphis’ earliest movie houses, it started its journey just four years after the city saw its first moving picture. In the early 1920s, the Rex Theater, an innovative open-air venue known as an airdome, relocated to the Shamrock building on McLemore Avenue. When the Rex was outfitted for sound, it was renamed the Royal Theater, continuing to serve as a beloved neighborhood cinema until it closed its doors in 1955.

Two years later, in 1957, local musical entrepreneur Joe Coughi transformed the Royal Theater into Royal Recording Studio. Partnering with Quinton Claunch, Ray Harris, and John Novarese, Coughi rented the building for sixty dollars a month and established the home of Hi Records. This newly minted recording studio quickly gained a reputation as the “House of Instrumentals,” producing a series of instrumental hits by the Bill Black Combo, such as “Smokey, Part 2,” “Josephine,” “White Silver Sands,” each of which
sold over a million copies.

The studio’s direction took a pivotal turn in the 1960s under the leadership of Willie Mitchell. Mitchell recorded over 20 singles at Royal for Memphis labels, Stomper Time Records and Home of the Blues from 1958 to 1960 before getting signed to Hi Records as an Instrumental Artist in 1961.  Mitchell gradually shifted the label’s focus from rockabilly to a distinct R&B sound, shaping what is now known as the Memphis Sound. Under his guidance, Royal Studios became a seminal force in the music industry, contributing to the rich tapestry of Memphis’ musical legacy.

The Hi Records Era 

In the 1960s and 70s, Royal Studios rose to prominence as the home of Hi Records. Under Willie Mitchell’s leadership, the studio developed a signature sound characterized by lush, soulful arrangements and a deep, groovy rhythm section. This period saw the creation of numerous hits from artists such as Al Green, Ann Peebles, Otis Clay, and O.V. Wright amongst others.

Al Green’s classic collaborations with Willie Mitchell, in particular, produced an array of soul masterpieces, including “Let’s Stay Together,” “Love and Happiness,” and “Tired of Being Alone.” With Mitchell producing, writing and engineering, Al Green would make Memphis Music History having 6 consecutive # 1 albums, 6 #1 singles and 10 top ten singles. These recordings not only defined the Hi Records sound, but also cemented Royal Studios’ reputation as a powerhouse in the music industry. 

Continuing the Legacy

Willie Mitchell’s legacy has been carried forward by his family, particularly his son, Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell. Today, Boo Mitchell with his sister Oona Mitchell, continue to run Royal Studios, ensuring that it remains a vital part of the city’s music scene. Under their guidance, the studio has seen a resurgence, attracting contemporary artists from various genres. Artist like John Mayer, Wu-Tang Clan, Brandy Clark, and Silk Sonic have all came for the Royal sound.

In recent years, Royal Studios has hosted recording sessions for high-profile artists such as  Mark Ronson & Bruno Mars, who recorded the Grammy-winning song of the decade “Uptown Funk” at the studio, an updated version of the funky soul that helped to exemplify Royal’s hit making abilities to the current music scene. No matter how much the music landscape changes, some of today’s top-charting artists still look to Royal Studios to develop hits that are inspired by the studio’s iconic sound.

The Unique Atmosphere

One of the defining features of Royal Studios is its unique atmosphere. The studio has retained much of its original equipment and décor, providing an authentic recording experience that transports artists back to the golden age of soul music. The vintage gear, combined with the studio’s retro aesthetic, creates an inspiring environment that fosters creativity and innovation.

Community and Culture

Royal Studios is more than just a recording space; it’s a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of Memphis. The studio’s commitment to nurturing local talent and preserving the city’s musical heritage is evident in its ongoing community engagement and outreach efforts. Royal Studios hard work and ingenuity ensures that the legacy of Memphis music is passed down to future generations.

For more information on Royal Studios, visit the Royal Studios website.

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Lawrence Matthews ft. Idi x Teco – “Once More & Again (Our Mourning)”

We told you back in January that Memphis musician Lawrence Matthews’ forthcoming album was something not to be missed, and every subsequent single he releases just reinforces why. “Once More & Again (Our Mourning)” is his latest tour de force, a stunning and poignant song that pays homage to Southern traditions. Helping to deliver Matthews’ message is Memphis duo Idi x Teco, who each masterfully open and close the track with powerful verses. You won’t be able to play it (or watch the visuals) just once. It’s haunting in the best way possible.

Blvck Hippie – Basketball Camp

Have you ever wished someone made an album that perfectly encapsulated your high school experience? Blvck Hippie frontman Josh Shaw did, so they went about making it themselves. Basketball Camp is the Memphis band’s newest album and it doesn’t disappoint. The group blends their wide range of influences (part pop, part rock, part punk, part jazz, part everything else) and impressively makes one cohesive soundtrack over which Shaw layers his raw and visceral storytelling. Conjure up your teenage angst and let this one rip.

Rose A. – S4U/GDL/SOS

It’s been a minute since Memphis songstress Rose A. has dropped new music, but this summer she’s gifted us not one, not two, but three new tracks. All three songs feature slithering sensual production courtesy of producer Spek Was Here, over which Rose A. layers her saccharine and delicate vocals. The whole project is impressive, but where Rose A. truly shines is on “S4U,” an intimate reworking of the Britney Spears’ classic “I’m a Slave 4 U”. Her arrangement is like someone stripped away the original production and instead seductively purred the lyrics into your ear. It’s *chefs kiss*.

Marco Alexander – “Wiseman” (Acapella: TRIBE Arrangement)

Choosing to cover another artists’ song is never an easy feat, but choosing to cover a Frank Ocean song? Wheww…that’s not for the weak. It’s safe to say that Memphis musician Marco Alexander understood this though because his version of Ocean’s “Wiseman” is utterly breathtaking. Backed by the talented “TRIBE”, he reimagines the track and flips it into an acapella masterpiece. “This feels like the ‘Amen’ to a prayer” Alexander wrote of the arrangement on Instagram, and honestly, there’s not a better way to describe it.

Gloss Up – Not Ya Girl: Act 1

After dropping her debut album Different Shades of Gloss in 2019, Gloss Up garnered major attention after her appearance on Hitkidd’s hit posse cut “Set the Tone” with fellow Memphis  rappers GloRilla, K Carbon, Slimeroni, and Aleza. She hasn’t taken her foot off of the gas since, which begs the question: If you’re outside and not listening to Gloss Up’s new album Not Ya Girl: Act 1 at full blast, then what are you doing??? It’s summer, Memphis! Turn this shit up.

The post WAMM in Rotation: Our Favorite Music of June ’24 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Last month, Memphis musician Rose Gold Jones released his newest album Beautiful Things Don’t Ask For Attention, which eludes traditional narratives of rap glamour to explore the complexities of self, strife, romance, and resilience. We caught up with the artist to discuss the album, his background, and much more.

1. First thing first, just give us a quick overview of your background and how you first got involved with music.

Music is my life! I’ve been performing since I was a child (3-4 years old). I was doing solo performances in church by 6 years old, so being on a stage and in front of people comes pretty naturally to me. That experience helped me make a name around Memphis for being a dynamic performer as I made the rounds doing a lot of underground shows. Early on, my music didn’t really connect with people as much as my energy and passion seemed to, but I was fortunate to have support. I grew into a better artist with the help and influence of many greats from the city, who saw some potential in me. Shout out to The Traphouse, Section 9 and Young Ave… these studios were fundamental to my artistic development.

I also spent some time in Los Angeles, working and learning on more of the industry side. That time was valuable because it showed me how things worked behind the scenes and at the top level. Coming back to Memphis, I wanted to bring something new to the current scene, so I spent the last 3 years making songs and figuring out who I am as an artist. The album title came to me around that time, which gave me the inspiration and direction I needed to build on musically.

Authenticity is important to me and I know how powerful great music can be, so I’m not going to put out bullsh*t. I never minded taking my time. I knew I wanted to release my album and grow it from the ground up right here in Memphis, though. I’ve kinda had a ‘most known unknown’ vibe (shout out to Three 6 Mafia) when it comes to my reputation around here, but I believe that will change soon!

2. You’ve been a frequent collaborator with several notable artists recently, including Jozzy and Crunchy Black. Tell us a bit about what you enjoy about working with other artists and the benefits of collaboration.

I love working with people because you never know what to expect. Other than performing in front of a crowd, I’d say the most fun you get to have as an artist is collaborating. For this album, I took more of an in-house approach with who I worked with, but outside of my own stuff, I’ve beencontacted to write and produce for some mainstream and local artists. It wasn’t something I was initially interested in, but opening up to new methods of creating has helped my own work exponentially, so I’m very grateful for those opportunities.

3. You recently released your new album Beautiful Things Don’t Ask for Attention, which we’ve been loving. Before we get deeper into the music, tell us a bit about what you wanted to accomplish with this one and who you worked with on it.

To elaborate from the last question, I got to work with some of my favorite people in the world on this album. Chris3000, Hotrod, and Peyton Hails, all from Memphis, set the tone(s) with their crazy production. The legendary Isaac Daniel (now at Stax) engineered and helped me develop my sound along with Kyle Javello, who also engineered, took on the role of executive producer, and was very influential to the overall sound. The only featured artist are CJ Tate and Janiece Myers on the song “Caught Up”. They killed it!

As far as what I was looking to accomplish, it was important to me to express a complete thought and a full album allowed me to go in depth, creatively. It’s psychological exploration. There’s a story element, lots of easter eggs, and call backs, but it’s all truth from the mind and universe of Rose Gold Jones.

For as much as this album is about the music, though, it’s just as much about setting the standard and foundation for what I represent as an artist. This is the official first release from my company, Product Of Karma Music. I want to set the bar high for what’s to be expected from Rose Gold Jones and Product Of Karma Music.

4. Beautiful Things is probably easiest to categorize as a hip-hop album, but you do a ton of singing as well throughout. Blending genres is obviously nothing new, but tell us about your personal approach and philosophy.

My approach was to be pure with myself and the music. Sometimes you don’t know how that’s going to come out. I don’t really have any musical influences, as far as artist or style, though I am a fan of everything. I would just consider myself a progressive minded person and I think there’s a sweet spot you can find in pushing boundaries and making something people can feel and relate to. I’m not quite there yet, but that is where I strive to be as an artist. It’s all about the feeling!

5. I know you’re still fresh off of the release, but do you have anything else we should keep our eyes peeled for in terms of videos, live performances, etc.?

Definitely! All of the above, and even more new music. Something I didn’t mention earlier, but I do all my own visuals, graphics, and merch, so I’m creating everyday. I’m going to spend the next couple of months going hard with Beautiful Things Don’t Ask For Attention. There’s a lot of layers to this project and I’m excited to tell the story. Along with that, continuing to grow the brand and make Product Of Karma a force for pushing new art and more creative ideas. Be on the look out for some official news with that this Fall, but for now, the summer is all about Beautiful Things!

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Memphis is the epicenter of musical innovation. Look anywhere you want in the history of American music and you’ll find Memphis. We’re the birthplace of the blues and rock’n’roll, we invented soul, and we’ve been changing the hip-hop game for more than 30 years. Whatever your sound, whatever your set up, we’ve got you covered – from the expansive and legendary Sam Phillips studio at Ardent to that single special tracking room at Sun, you’ll find what you need in Memphis. Memphis has long been a center for music recording – and our historic studios like Sam Phillips and Royal are still cutting hits for artists like Margo Price and Bruno Mars.

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If you’re hesitant about taking the cross-continental trip to see what will undoubtedly be a stellar showcase, we’ve got good news! On March 30th at the Central Atrium of Crosstown Concourse, all of the artists on the lineup will perform for the community and give a taste of what they are bringing to Canadian audiences! You can reserve your free tickets here. 

Before all of the festivities kick off, however, we thought we’d take a brief moment to introduce you to all 5 artists who will soon be representing the M-Town.

Mak Ro

The duo of cousins Eric Makapugay and Kris Ruaro have been winning over fans since 2019 with their deeply soulful blend of R&B, pop, and rock. With a familiarity that only family can provide, the two continue to push the boundaries of their music into new and exciting directions and seem well-poised to be some of the city’s next break-out stars. To learn more about Mak Ro, check out this conversation we had with the group last year. 

Raneem Imam

Even before graduating from Rhodes College with a Bachelor of Arts in Music, singer-songwriter Raneem Imam was already winning over fans and garnering headlines for her nostalgic pop stylings. Now a full-time musician, Imam is living up to the early hype as one of Memphis’ brightest young talents. Earlier this year, we sat down with Imam to discuss her career, inspirations, and much more. You can find that conversation here. 

Lukah

While his stature continues to grow, South Memphis rapper Lukah is already a well-known talent amongst hip-hop heads, receiving national attention from publications such as NPR and Pitchfork. With a mature and gritty throwback sound that harkens back to the genre’s 1990s golden age, Lukah has been on a blistering run, releasing several full-length albums in just a few years. In March, we spoke with him about his newest album “Temple Needs Water. Village Needs Peace,” which you can find here. 

Jai Musiq

Much like his idols Drake and Kid Cudi, Jai Musiq creates a lush and smooth blend of R&B and hip-hop that stands in contrast with the city’s hardcore rap history. Since first breaking out in 2015, Jai Musiq has released a steady flow of excellent music, most recently dropping the singles “J.U.U.G.!” and “Ain’t Shit.” With an inspirational message and a versatile sound, Jai Musiq is an artist that commands attention.

Deonna Sirod

I must admit, I was a late comer to the music of Deonna Sirod, but after witnessing her performances at the Tambourine Bash and DreamFest, I was quickly won over. Like many of the artists in this list, Sirod’s music is not easily categorized, blending several different genres into a unified whole. Last year, the singer released her latest album “Abstract,” a deeply personal and gorgeous collection of songs that was one of the highlights of 2023.

The post Meet the 5 Artists Traveling to Toronto for Music Export Memphis’ NXNE Showcase appeared first on We Are Memphis.

May 23: Playa Fly- “Movin On’”

Like nearly all of the artists featured in the “Lo-Fi in Hi-Fi” series, Playa Fly never managed to fully break out of the underground, yet his influence continues to permeate the culture. An early affiliate of Three 6 Mafia before a notoriously hostile falling out, Playa Fly established himself as one of the city’s breakout stars in the 1990s. Movin’ On, his 1998 sophomore album, remains a Memphis rap classic and features the beloved regional singles “Nobody Needs Nobody” and “I-B-N.”

June 27: Tommy Wright III- “On the Run”

While Tommy Wright III will likely never receive his proper accolades for being a progenitor of Memphis rap–and therefore a godfather of crunk, trap, and all of its many other offshoots–it has been heartening to see the OG finally receive at least some of his flowers in recent years, including a production credit on Beyonce’s massive Renaissance album. Nowhere is Tommy’s influence more clear than on his 1996 magnum opus On the Run, a lo-fi masterpiece that still sounds ahead of its time.

July 25: Gangsta Pat- “Deadly Verses”

An early master of the triplet flow and one of the pioneers of horrorcore, Gangsta Pat is amongst Memphis’ most important artists of the 1990s. His 1995 album Deadly Verses found the rapper exhibiting a newfound maturity–both stylistically and in terms of subject matter–over some of the best beats of the era. Clocking in at a succinct 45 minutes, Deadly Verses is the definition of “all killer, no filler.”

August 22: La Chat- “Murder She Spoke”

Alongside the late, great Gangsta Boo, La Chat helped to smash through Memphis rap’s glass ceiling and pave the way for other women such as Trina, GloRilla, and Megan Thee Stallion. Best known for her association with the Hypnotize Minds, La Chat first broke into the public consciousness with her star-making guest feature on Project Pat’s classic “Chickenheads.” The following year, she released her debut album Murder She Spoke, which proved that she could be just as ruthless and nasty as any of the men in her camp.

September 26: Gangsta Blac- “74 Minutes of Bump”

If you were lucky enough to be in Memphis during the summer of 1999, you can probably remember the absolute chokehold that his regional hit “S.O.U.T.H. Parkway” had on the radio waves. The breakout hit from his classic 74 Minutes of Bump led many new fans to discover the Memphis rap O.G., who has already been in the game for years. As the title promises, Blac does indeed deliver over an hour of “bump” in this essential project.

October 24: Kingpin Skinny Pimp- “King of Da Playaz Ball”

First making waves as a frequent guest throughout Three 6 Mafia’s debut album Mystic Stylez, Kingpin Skinny Pimp was one of the city’s biggest underground stars throughout the 1990s. His 1996 debut King of Da Playaz Ball, which features some of DJ Paul’s finest production work, proved that he could shine as a solo artist and remains one of the defining projects of its era.

To learn more about the series and for a list of special guest speakers, visit https://www.memphislofiinhifi.com/.

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Last month, Memphis rapper Bleu Levees dropped his latest project The LSD Tapes Vol 1. The experimental EP spans 3 tracks – all of which impressively showcase his growing stylistic range while still maintaining a cohesive narrative. This duality is no happy accident. To say Bleu Levees is an intentional artist would be an understatement. Every note, every word, every visual is crafted with purpose. We sat down with the rapper to discuss his creative process, becoming a father, and what other projects he has in store for 2024.

Why don’t you start by telling us about your background. How did you start making music?

I’m originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, but I grew up with both the Memphis and New Orleans cultures because my mom’s from Memphis and my dad’s from New Orleans. When Hurricane Katrina hit, my family and I left the city and moved to Memphis. I was around 11 at the time. 

I didn’t really start doing music until, like, maybe tenth or eleventh grade. I actually first started with poetry. I would write poetry in the back of the class because I was kind of the quiet, shy kid in class. Then I met Berry (shoutout my boy BerryThaGoat) and he really got me into actually expressing myself as an artist. 

So, it kind of took someone else to bring you out of your shell and believe in your talent.

Yea, it took others to kind of bring out my, I guess, creative side and just be more vocal. I feel like with music in general, it allowed me to kind of have a voice outside of having to speak to people to express myself. 

Berry was known as a rapper, but I would kind of play around. I had maybe two pages of poetry and raps written. Out of nowhere, he looks at me and was like, “don’t you rap a little too? You should come spit something,” but I was too nervous so I just gave him my poetry to read and walked away. I actually nervously walked around the school (laughs).

When I came back, I was kind of expecting him to be laughing at my writing, but he was like, “oh this is GOOD.” And we just started hanging out. I would come over to his house and practice writing music. I would watch him create so I could learn how. I think that entire summer after tenth grade I would just be over at his house and we would be writing and releasing music.

How did you come up with the name Bleu Levees?

I actually released my first album under my real name, Michael. I didn’t change my name until like 2017 when I decided to put my music on Spotify in a more professional way.

Bleu Levees came about because I just kind of played on kind of where I’m from and where I wanted to go. I call myself Blue, just like an ode to New Orleans, and like that side of myself. Also, the levees – if the levee didn’t break I wouldn’t be here.

I also wanted to be like a mental levee for people listening to my music – they can kind of chill and not feel all the pressure. Blue I also correlated with Memphis for the Blues and the blue color with Memphis. So, I kind of feel like that all mixed together really nicely.

You touched on the mix of cultures and influences you grew up with, which makes sense because your music really is a blend of different sounds and genres. I’m guessing you have a wide range of artists that inspired you. What are some of your main musical influences?

Honestly, I was a big nu metal fan. I get bored easily so I really moved away from what was “mainstream” or on the radio. I would be listening to Linkin Park, Korn, Gorillaz – Gorillaz is a big influence on me visually and sonically. Then I would say hip-hop wise for sure Lupe Fiasco, Kanye West, and Kendrick Lamar.

I was also around people who were schooling me on the real history of Memphis rap. So, I got really into like Tommy Wright III, Lord Infamous, Project Pat, Juicy J, Three 6 Mafia, all of that as well.

You also have a very carefully curated artistic aesthetic. It’s clear that you have a specific idea for the visuals that go along with your music. How important is that whole package to you?

I’m a real cinema head (laughs). I just love movies and I love the weird, like underground movies. I love Japanese movies or horror movies – those are probably some of my favorite genres. But I would watch movies and pay attention to what music they paired with each scene, so I guess that correlation was there from the jump. Even when I was younger, I would listen to music and come up with videos in my head so now I write music and already have a visual in my head. I really feel like I’m slick writing music to my own movie. 

Do you want to write your own movie?

Yea, I’m working on scripts now actually – just like a movie and TV series. It’s kind of hard to balance everything out time-wise, you know? To do music professionally, plus the business side and then these other creative things. But it is something I wanna definitely do.

You recently announced that you’re expecting your first child. How do you think that might change you as an artist?

I think it’s already kind of changing me. It’s making me a lot more comfortable being myself. I feel like it’s gonna make me more vulnerable too, which I’m happy for, and I actually want. I think it would be great for my music and my creativity in general. 

I think, too, since I am having a baby girl, it will make me a little bit more aware of what I’m saying and doing, because I know she’ll be listening to my music. So, now I’ll be thinking, “how will she interpret this?” 

I know you’re the type of artist that’s constantly working. Who have you been linking up with lately?

I’ve been working with a producer named EMPEE, he’s a producer for a Memphis group Iron Mic Coalition – they’re like the Memphis Wu-Tang, they’ve been around for the longest. He’s one of those old school producers who just has records and records all around his house and because of that, he introduced me to some completely new artists and new sounds. Like I just watch him work on different samples…I really don’t know anybody that has beats like him. He’s kinda like my superpower.

I’m also working with my boy, AClef Vibes. He’s more, I would say, Memphis trap rap. So, I have this duality in my music because EMPEE does more a boom bap style, like a dark boom bap style, and AClef does more the trap style. Oh, and I can’t forget my boy, Spek. He’s heavy on my album. He’s crazy, his stuff is just crazy.

That’s super dope. Do you have any other Memphis artists that you’ve been working with or want to work with?

Producer wise, IMAKEMADBEATS and I have been working together – we actually got something else that’s coming out. 

Artist wise, I definitely want to work with PreauXX, for sure. I’d love to work with Goldie Rebel, he’s hard. He’s got like a Larry June, Premo Rice type of vibe. I’d love to link up with my boy Coffey…he’s very experimental and I love that. There’s a million others in my head too (laughs).

Let’s talk about your new project, The LSD Tapes Vol 1. This EP feels much more confident and experimental than your last album, A Shade of Bleu. What influenced this project and how did your creative process differ from before?

The LSD Tapes was really made when I was over at my boy EMPEE’s house and he was just playing a bunch of different stuff. I think we were watching this movie. I like to do that – play music, and then I’ll just put a visual or something from YouTube on. 

There’s a full movie on YouTube called The Trip with Peter Fonda from, like, the sixties. It’s about a director that takes LSD for the first time because he’s depressed while going through a divorce. So, he’s playing music and we’re watching this and I’m like “oh what if we do like a tape like that.” So that was our concept and he would just send me beats and I would play around with them and really experiment. LSD is an experience and that’s what I wanted to craft – I wanted it to sound like a full experience without necessarily having to take anything.

Also, this came around a time where it felt like a lot of things in my life were like dying, but in a good way. Situations were ending and I was starting a new chapter. In this sense, the LSD actually stands for Lovely Sorted Death – where it’s all about letting go of things and having a, like, rebirth.

What else can we expect from you this year?

I’m working on my actual album now, it’s gonna be called The Way of the Cat. But in the meantime, while working on The Way of the Cat, I want to put more music out. I want to do more for the LSD Tapes series. My vision is that this project is just volume 1 of 3. I like to work in threes.

I also want to do more shows at art galleries or even kind of a secret, invitation only type night. A secret show. I just want to make it more of an experience because, you know, music is an experience. With me, just expect the unexpected.

The post Catching Up with Memphis Rapper Bleu Levees About His New EP, Influences, and Impending Fatherhood appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Uni’q – “Ain’t No Sleepin”

One thing about the Unapologetic crew is that they are ALWAYS working. Their output is unreal not only because of the volume, but because of the quality. Uni’q’s new single “Ain’t No Sleepin” is just the latest example of this. Over soulful yet poppy production by SunnyDizzle, the Memphis songstress showcases her undeniable vocal prowess. The track was also mixed by industry powerhouse Ari Morris, so you know it’s something special. Listen to a snippet below and download the UnApologetic World app to hear it in full.

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1477743696204118 

Kendrick P – Prelude EP

Is there anyone out there smoother than Kendrick P? No, for real though. Anything that the Memphis singer puts out, elevates and redefines our idea of sensual R&B. Don’t believe me? Just hit play on his latest project, Prelude. The three track EP is a hypnotizing listen, complete with melodic production and Kendrick’s velvety vocals. It’s an excellent offering, proving Kendrick’s own lyrics: “Let’s be honest, I been on it. Who fucking with me? Please show me my opponent”

K Carbon ft. Mello Buckzz and Big30 – “Un Huh”

There’s absolutely no messing with female rappers these days. These ladies are unstoppable with each new song better than the last. On “Un Huh”, Memphis rapper K. Carbon links up with rising Chicago artist Mello Buckzz and together they create a bouncy and utterly infectious anthem. Joining them is fellow rapper Big30, who nicely adds just a lil’ extra Memphis to the track. All three provide solid verses, but it’s the ladies that truly standout and take this song to the next level. 

Supa Glock Bros – “St. Gatrick’s Day Freestyle”

Leave it to Supa Glock Bros to turn a lame (sorry but it’s true) holiday into something so much cooler. The Memphis trio, who have all been busy working on their solo endeavors, link back up for the much welcomed “St. Gatrick’s Day Freestyle.” Here, they seamlessly blend their unique styles on the track to create one cohesive output. It’s what makes Supa Glock Bros so good – they understand how to maintain their individuality while still functioning as a group. St. Gatrick’s Day >>> St. Patrick’s Day.

Lukah ft. Real Bad Man – “The Facilitator” 

Memphis rapper Lukah is set to drop his new album Temple Needs Water. Village Needs Peace, and to give us a preview of what to expect he’s shared the first two singles off the upcoming project. The latest is “The Facilitator,” which finds Lukah operating at his very best: impeccable delivery, poignant lyricism, and flawless technique. “This project is about the community or the village,” Lukah told us when we spoke to him about the LP last week. “I have a lot of shit in my head that I just have to get out.” If the rest of the album mirrors the magnitude of “The Facilitator,” we’re lucky to hear his thoughts.

The post WAMM in Rotation: 5 Songs for March ’24 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Acclaimed Memphis singer-songwriter Chris Milam is back with a new single, the title track from his forthcoming album Orchid South. In anticipation, we sat down with the artist to discuss “Orchid South,” his upcoming listening event at the Memphis Listening Lab, and the key to writing an enduring song.

1. For anyone who may not yet be familiar with you or your music, give us a quick rundown of your musical career thus far.

I’m from Memphis, but started my career when I went to college in Nashville. I moved to NYC from there and, once touring started ramping up, I wanted a cheaper homebase than Manhattan. So I came back to Memphis and have been a touring artist (plagues aside) for several years now. I have two albums out (Kids These Days in 2017, Meanwhile in 2020) and a third on the way (Orchid South 5.10.24). All 3 are different–I try not to fax a fax.

I’ve been lucky enough to have some really kind press over the years, but that’s because I shamelessly bribe music writers with Dunkaroos and frankincense.

Andrew Trent Fleming

2. You’ve just released your new single “Orchid South,” the title track from your upcoming album. Tell us about the song, and how it fits in to the album.

The album’s about my teenage years, but it’s also set in that time and place. So I wanted it to draw on the music that I fell in love with–and fell in love to–back then. Memphis powerpop, 90’s alt rock, a pinch of psychedelia. Everything feels so heightened when you’re a kid, so I wanted big, layered songs to match those big, layered emotions. “Orchid South” is a natural single–it introduces a lot of the sounds and sights and lyrical themes of the album, and it’s got that big anthemic chorus. I think it’s cathartic.

3. You’ve really made a name for yourself as an exceptionally gifted songwriter, earning high praise from national publications and fellow artists. What do you think is the key to writing an enduring song?

That’s kind, thank you. Enduring’s a great word, because that’s exactly what I focus on/obsess over when I write. For instance, I spend a lot of time and energy making sure my songs have layers. I want the listener to enjoy the first listen, I want the listener to enjoy the millionth listen, and I want the listener to enjoy every listen for potentially different reasons. All of my favorite songs have grown with me over time. I hear something new, a lyric’s meaning might evolve with age, etc.

One song can say a lot of different things.

Tommy Kha

4. You’ll be hosting an album listening party at the Memphis Listening Lab on March 14th. What should fans expect from Orchid South, both musically and thematically?

It’s a rock and roll record! Big, summery rock songs.

Music’s the only thing that has always made me feel like I’m not alone. This started in childhood, but it became the love of my life when I was a teenager. I wanted to make the album that Young Chris would’ve clung to like a life raft, constantly playing the CD in the car, driving nowhere. So, I’ve wanted to make this album since I picked up a guitar–it just took me a while to feel ready.

Also, a lot of the things I saw or experienced in adolescence feel especially relevant now. 2024’s a tumultuous time to be an adult, and it’s always a tumultuous time to be a teenager. So, I hope these 11 songs tell stories from my past in a way that still speaks to the present.

5. Even before hearing the album, I was struck by the excellent band that you put together for this project, including many hometown heroes. Tell me a bit about your musical collaborators on this project and the process of creating it.

Like Kids These Days and Meanwhile, Orchid South was produced by Toby Vest and recorded at High/Low Recording here in Memphis. I really can’t overstate how much working with Toby and Pete Matthews at H/L has meant to me: artistically, professionally, and personally.

I knew that this album’s scope would be bigger than the last two, and that it’s a rock album that deserves a rock band. It was really important to me that, as much as possible, the songs were built around live takes–the band all playing together in a room. That takes time, planning, rehearsal, but also buy-in from the musicians. People record this way less and less because it’s harder. The upshot is that some people love recording this way. Musicians playing music together–who knew?

So I think the band was excited by the process. And everyone had a fondness for the music Orchid South‘s inspired by. If I tell Luke
White “what if the lovechild of [Tom Petty’s] Full Moon Fever and [Big Star’s] #1 Record grew up in the 90’s,” he already knows. I think the band started from a place of shared influences and kind of a musical shorthand. The full credits for the album are at my site, and I’m enormously grateful for every single person who contributed to the album. These songs couldn’t have been in better hands.

The post Chris Milam Reflects On Adolescence On His Rocking Forthcoming Album “Orchid South” appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Life’s Luckii and I are sitting at a table in Crosstown one afternoon. In the middle of our conversation a man approaches us. “Excuse me, I’m sorry to interrupt, but are you a rapper?” he asks Luckii. She nods. “Do you go by Life’s Luckii?” he continues. She laughs and nods again. “Wow, this is so cool. I’m also a musician and I got some things I’d love for you to hear when you’re done,” he says. The two make plans to link up later and Luckii and I resume talking. “Don’t worry, that doesn’t happen often,” she says laughing.

Life’s Luckii might be joking but after spending time with her, I don’t believe in the rarity of that occurrence. There’s something about the Memphis artist that is instantly infectious. Her energy is electric. Her spirit is contagious. The phrase “she lights up a room” is corny and overplayed, but for Luckii, it’s true – she makes any space she enters brighter and more exciting. 

“I was always that person people came to when they were going through shitty days,” she tells me. “I just really realized there’s nothing good in coming off miserable. I smile even through there are those painful days.” It’s an inspirational mentality forged from overcoming past hardships. “I’ve always had asthma really badly. Then my brother passed when he was 17 from an actual, like, asthma attack. After that, it kind of like forced me to see everything differently. It forced me to not live in those shitty moments so much.”

When you meet Luckii in real life, this positivity is palpable, but when you listen to her music, it becomes transformative. Over any style beat (seriously, any style – there’s not a beat she can’t conquer), Life’s Luckii delivers her motivational message with a fierceness that commands your attention. Her flow is relentless, her delivery is impactful, and her technique is undeniable. She can make some of the most complex bars look effortless.

“I feel like I’m walking in my purpose,” Luckii tells me about her music. Which makes sense considering how important art has been to her throughout her life. During school, Life’s Luckii wrote poetry before she moved into songwriting. “I always read when I was young. I did poetry, like, heavy when I was young. Even when I first started rapping, I went by Life’s Poet,” she recalls. Despite freestyling at the lunch table, it wasn’t until her Dad’s friend recorded her poems over beats that she formally switched gears to rapping and making music. 

When Luckii details her background to me, she makes one thing very clear: she raps, but she’s not only a rapper. “I don’t fit into a box,” she tells me adamantly. And I agree. Luckii has the unique ability to seamlessly shift between R&B, hip-hop, pop, soul, or blues. “I don’t really feel like I’m in one category. I’m telling you, I pretty much can catch anything, any beat, any vibe. As long as it’s something I can feel, I can do it.”

The confidence she has in her innate talent isn’t just clear to her listeners, it’s also clear to other artists. This past year, Life’s Luckii teamed up with fellow Memphis musician Glockianna for the explosive single “Star.”  “I actually did something with A.R. The Mermaid too. Hopefully that’ll be out this summer,” she adds. 

In addition to these collaborations, Luckii’s working on her own material. “I have a LOT of songs that I’ve written that are just waiting in the bank. I don’t know if I’m going to do an album or just an EP yet, but I have enough for a full album. We definitely working, we got some hits,” she tells me, and when she lists off some of the producers she’s working with, I’m sure she does. “I was just in the studio with C Major. I got some songs with Red On The Beat too,” she reveals. Damn. Sounds like some big moves coming in 2024.

Life’s Luckii’s special not only because of what she’s already created, but also because of her unbridled potential. She’s got all the makings for success and you can sense it when you’re around her. “You know, every time I am allowed to step on a stage or the moment I step in a space, people see me. I’m seen and heard. I’m blessed for that. People are always just kind of like, ‘dang, this girl is dope! She’s a real diamond in the rough.’” Life’s Luckii likens herself to a diamond in the rough, but that’s not necessarily what I’d call her. To me, she encapsulates the rarity and promise of finding say…oh I don’t know…a four leaf clover?

The post Armed with Infectious Optimism and an Eclectic Range, Life’s Luckii is Ready for the Limelight appeared first on We Are Memphis.